Newcastle United are attempting to make a huge statement by signing Hugo Ekitike.
The 23-year-old has emerged as Eddie Howe’s top target, with Newcastle prioritising a new forward.
After failing to bring in the likes of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, Geordie Boot Boys understand that Newcastle want to sign Ekitike for a club record fee.
It would be a staggering deal, while it has been suggested that Ekitike has agreed personal terms with Newcastle ahead of a £70million move to Tyneside.
Newcastle United must follow Hugo Ekitike with major contract extension
Signing Ekitike would be a real statement of intent from Newcastle United, but they still have the potential to go one better this summer.
Toon officials have told Ekitike that they want him to play alongside Alexander Isak rather than replace him, and nothing would reinforce that fact more than handing the 25-year-old a new contract.
Newcastle are expected to offer Isak a new contract, with negotiations expected to take place this summer. Geordie Boot Boys understand that Newcastle want Isak to be their highest paid player, which is no surprise after he netted 20+ goals in successive seasons.
The Sweden international has established himself as one of the world’s best forwards. That is why Liverpool want to sign Isak, and they will potentially feel as if a deal could be possible if Ekitike arrives on Tyneside.
But Newcastle plan to keep Isak too, and their position will be strengthened immensely if he pens a new contract on vastly improved terms.
It would be an even bigger statement of intent on top of signing Ekitike.
- Who is Alexander Isak? The striker who burned his Newcastle United reputation to force £125m Liverpool transfer
How PIF have viewed Alexander Isak at Newcastle United
Isak is Newcastle United’s talisman. He has been relentless in front of goal ever since his arrival at St James’ Park, scoring 62 goals in 109 appearances.
He is seen as untouchable on Tyneside, with Eddie Howe not even considering selling him when the club’s PSR situation was absolutely nuclear 12 months ago. Even with a points deduction looming, the stance was that Isak was not for sale.
That is a stance shared by the Newcastle United owners. It was reported earlier this year that PIF chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan has made it clear that Isak must not be sold. That is how valuable he is to the Magpies’ project.
Signing Ekitike would give Isak the support he needs, while it could also reinforce to the Swedish striker that he can achieve his ambitions at St James’ Park.
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