Newcastle make decision over selling Alexander Isak as Hugo Ekitike transfer edges closer

Newcastle United remain firmly committed to keeping Alexander Isak at the club, even as their pursuit of Hugo Ekitike intensifies ahead of the new season.

Despite strong interest in Ekitike and a desire to further reinforce their attacking options, those in charge at St James’ Park have no intention of cashing in on their star striker.

The Swedish international has become a cornerstone of Eddie Howe’s forward line, and the club sees no scenario in which he leaves, even if another marquee forward arrives.

Newcastle have already taken steps to strengthen their front line, adding Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and promising talent Antonito Cordero from Málaga.

However, the hunt for a more traditional centre-forward continues, and Ekitike has emerged as a top target. The 23-year-old Frenchman, who impressed during his time at Eintracht Frankfurt and previously at PSG, is attracting attention from several Premier League sides, including Liverpool and Chelsea. Yet Newcastle appear to be leading the race to secure his signature.

A deal for Ekitike won’t come cheap. His contract reportedly includes a release clause worth around £86 million, a fee that would make him one of the most expensive signings in Newcastle’s history.

But even with a potential deal of that magnitude looming, the Magpies remain unwavering in their stance on Isak. The club has no interest in using a high-profile incoming to justify the departure of one of their most prolific players. Instead, they view Ekitike as a complement to Isak, not a replacement.

Sources suggest Newcastle plan to offer Isak an improved contract, solidifying their long-term commitment to the forward who scored 23 league goals last season.

His performances were instrumental in guiding Newcastle to another Champions League qualification, and with his current contract running until 2028, the club is under no immediate pressure to sell.

He is believed to be earning around £120,000 a week, but Newcastle are reportedly willing to offer a deal that reflects his growing stature both in the Premier League and on the European stage.

Eddie Howe has made his views crystal clear when asked about Isak’s future. Earlier this year, he publicly stated that the player was not for sale and reiterated his focus on building depth rather than dismantling a squad that has made impressive progress in recent years.

Howe emphasised the importance of continuity and strengthening, especially given the physical demands of competing on four fronts next season—domestic league, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and the Champions League.

Bringing in Ekitike would allow Howe to better manage Isak’s workload throughout a demanding campaign. With more matches and higher expectations, squad rotation will be essential, and having another top-tier striker in the ranks would ease the pressure on Isak while maintaining Newcastle’s attacking threat.

It also provides tactical flexibility, enabling Howe to play with two forwards when the situation calls for it.

While interest in Isak from elite clubs remains high—particularly given his blend of pace, intelligence, and clinical finishing—Newcastle’s valuation of the player stands at a minimum of £150 million, a figure designed to deter suitors and reinforce their position.

For now, the message from St James’ Park is clear: Isak is not on the market, and the club’s ambitions for next season revolve around keeping their best players while adding quality to support them.

The strategy is bold but calculated. By retaining Isak and pursuing Ekitike, Newcastle aim to solidify their reputation not just as challengers, but as a side capable of building a lasting presence at the top of the Premier League and in European football.