Newcastle is trying to acquire one of the most sought-after attackers in Europe.
After starting negotiations to recruit Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt, Newcastle reportedly made a decisive decision over the future of Alexander Isak, a target for Liverpool.
The Magpies will make a €75 million (about £65 million) bid to sign Ekitike, who plays for France internationally, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
After an unfortunate stint at PSG, the 23-year-old striker scored 22 goals for Frankfurt last season, winning praise from fans all around Europe.
The Frenchman’s contract expires in 2029, and he has been linked to moves to Liverpool, Chelsea, and Barcelona. However, he now seems to be heading toward St. James’ Park.
Isak is desired by Liverpool, and the deal, albeit not finalized yet, is thought to directly affect his future.
This is in line with Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, who says Magpies manager Eddie Howe wants the two to attack together rather than replacing the Swede with the £86 million-rated Ekitike.
If Liverpool wants to add a striker, they will have to look elsewhere because that would produce one of the Premier League’s most feared striking units.
French publication Foot Mercato reports that Reds transfer executives have met with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Crystal Palace agents in Paris.
Following his transformation under Oliver Glasner’s tutelage, the 28-year-old has scored 30 Premier League goals in the last two seasons.
At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, he played as an overage player for France and helped Thierry Henry’s team win the silver medal with five goals in six games.
According to reports, he might be available for between £45 and £50 million, making him significantly less expensive to sign than Isak.
The signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen has already surpassed Liverpool’s club record, while the acquisitions of Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have increased their summer spending to far over £150 million.
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