Newcastle line up “one of the best CFs in Europe”, he’s the dream Ekitike alternative

After concluding the 2024/25 season on a high note, Newcastle United entered the summer transfer window with palpable optimism.

The energy surrounding the club was electric, but as has often been the case in recent years, the path forward has not been without its hurdles.

Despite early disappointments—missing out on key targets like Bryan Mbeumo, Joao Pedro, Mohammed Kudus, and potentially Matheus Cunha—Eddie Howe’s resilience and long-term vision continue to steer the club steadily through the fog of transfer complexities.

One of the most significant breakthroughs so far has been the agreement with Nottingham Forest for Anthony Elanga in a deal worth £52 million. Elanga’s arrival marks a key step toward reshaping Newcastle’s attacking structure.

Meanwhile, negotiations with Burnley for goalkeeper James Trafford are progressing, and there’s growing confidence within the club that the deal will be finalized soon.

More good news for the Geordie faithful is that Alexander Isak is set to remain on Tyneside. Though Howe is determined to strengthen his forward line with another striker, this ambition isn’t about replacing Isak—it’s about complementing him.

With Callum Wilson having exited the club after the expiry of his contract, the need for a fresh number nine is not a luxury, but a clear priority.

Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt has emerged as a strong candidate for that role. The Frenchman, with 22 goals and 12 assists last season, has certainly earned his place on Newcastle’s radar.

However, Frankfurt’s valuation of £85 million makes the deal challenging, particularly with Financial Fair Play rules in mind. That reality has pushed the club to evaluate more feasible alternatives, and one name now leading that list is Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

Newcastle’s reported interest in Watkins adds an intriguing layer to the summer’s transfer activity. The 29-year-old has been a consistent performer in the Premier League, and his attributes align perfectly with Howe’s system.

Watkins brings experience, dynamism, and a proven goal-scoring record—traits that could slot seamlessly into Newcastle’s tactical plans without disrupting the chemistry of the current attacking core.

Villa, of course, are reluctant to part ways with their star forward, but they’ve indicated a willingness to consider offers in the region of £50 million.

For Newcastle, that price tag represents both an opportunity and a strategic decision point. If the club were to table such a bid, they might find themselves with a genuine chance to land one of England’s most reliable frontmen.

What makes Watkins so appealing is his versatility. While naturally a central striker, his work rate and movement have allowed him to operate effectively from the left flank in Unai Emery’s system—a flexibility that Howe greatly values. And unlike the still-developing Ekitike, Watkins has already proved himself at the highest level over multiple seasons.

Here’s a breakdown of Ollie Watkins’ Premier League output over the past five seasons:

Data via Sofascore

These numbers speak volumes. Watkins has steadily built a reputation as one of the most complete forwards in the league. He’s quick, intelligent off the ball, and consistently delivers both goals and assists. Podcaster Rohan Jivan even referred to him as “one of the best centre-forwards in Europe”—a testament to his evolution and impact.

The choice between a rising star like Ekitike and a seasoned Premier League talent like Watkins ultimately reflects Newcastle’s ambition for immediate progress versus long-term development.

Ekitike may possess the raw tools to become world-class, but Watkins offers something even more valuable in the short term: guaranteed output.

Newcastle, under Howe’s leadership and PIF’s backing, are no longer just participants—they’re contenders. As the club sets its sights on European football and a deeper run in domestic competitions, every transfer decision carries weight.

Watkins may not be the flashiest name on the list, but his consistency, adaptability, and Premier League pedigree make him an ideal candidate to take Newcastle’s attack to the next level.

Bringing in Ollie Watkins could be the move that transforms Newcastle from a top-six challenger into a serious threat to the established order. And with the summer window still unfolding, the Magpies have time on their side to make it happen.