‘Ekitike has made it clear’: Journalist now says what Frankfurt are saying as Newcastle circle for £86m striker

Newcastle United are preparing to submit an improved bid for Hugo Ekitike after Eintracht Frankfurt rejected their initial offer.

The Magpies, who have long admired the French forward, remain determined to bring him to Tyneside and are now closer than ever to turning their interest into a blockbuster signing.

Ekitike has emerged as one of the hottest properties in European football, and Newcastle, having pursued him unsuccessfully twice in the past, now appear willing to break the bank to finally secure their man.

The 23-year-old striker previously turned down Newcastle for Paris Saint-Germain, a decision that momentarily stalled his trajectory.

But since his move to the Bundesliga, he has reestablished himself as one of Europe’s most prolific young talents. Scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists across all competitions last season, Ekitike has now reignited the attention of top Premier League clubs.

Frankfurt, recognizing his growing value, now expect to lose him this summer. According to journalist Graeme Bailey via TBR Football, the German club is resigned to his departure and fully aware that Ekitike has his sights set on a move to England.

What complicates Newcastle’s pursuit, however, is the entrance of Liverpool. Frustrated by Newcastle’s refusal to even entertain offers for Alexander Isak, Liverpool have shifted focus to Ekitike and are now looking to hijack the deal.

The Merseyside club have made contact with Frankfurt and are reportedly serious about launching their own bid. This unexpected twist has added a new layer of urgency to the situation and could drive the price higher as both clubs prepare to go head-to-head.

Newcastle, for their part, still believe in their ability to close the deal. Eddie Howe has long been an admirer of Ekitike, first identifying him as a top target during the striker’s breakout spell in Ligue 1.

The player himself is open to the move and prefers the Premier League as his next destination. Despite Liverpool’s interest, Newcastle have already laid groundwork in discussions with Ekitike’s camp and remain hopeful that the lure of a key role and consistent playing time will tilt the balance in their favour.

Should Liverpool succeed in signing Ekitike, it would likely cement Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle, at least for another season. While Newcastle would lose out on a long-term target, they’d effectively lock down their current talisman without fear of a Merseyside raid. Still, the irony won’t be lost on Ekitike, who would be stepping into a Liverpool side knowing he was signed in reaction to Newcastle’s refusal to sell—an act that smacks of competitive spite more than strategic planning.

As the saga unfolds, one thing is clear: Ekitike’s decision will have major implications for both clubs. For Newcastle, it’s a chance to finally secure a striker they’ve chased for years. For Liverpool, it’s about salvaging a summer plan disrupted by a rival’s defiance. The battle lines have been drawn, and whichever club lands Ekitike will not only gain a top-tier talent but also strike a psychological blow in an increasingly tense Premier League rivalry.