Newcastle United face competition to sign Hugo Ekitike, and not just from Liverpool.
The 23-year-old is Newcastle United’s top target right now, as Eddie Howe aims to sign the striker he is desperate for. Newcastle are pushing to sign Ekitike, with the Magpies willing to break their transfer record.
However, Liverpool have moved for Ekitike too. Arne Slot’s side also want to sign the Eintracht Frankfurt forward, who they see as an alternative to Alexander Isak.
This is developing into a saga, which is exactly what Newcastle United did not want.
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Newcastle United ‘not amused’ as their Hugo Ekitike approach goes public
Newcastle’s ambition was to keep their pursuit of Ekitike under wraps, but that has not happened much to their frustration.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has exclusively told Geordie Boot Boys that Newcastle were not happy about their Ekitike interest going public, with at least two other clubs eyeing the French forward.
“Newcastle have never not been interested in Ekitike and even when their interest emerged this week, which I am told they were not amused by, it is genuine,” he said.
“They can’t stop things coming out but they also know other clubs want him – Liverpool as we know are keen but there are others and I have been told not to discount Chelsea, should Nicolas Jackson depart.”
Liverpool’s interest in Ekitike has already complicated Newcastle’s pursuit. The Magpies were hoping to have a clear run at him, but that has not happened.
The situation could be complicated further by Chelsea, which would be quite stunning given the fact they have already signed Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer. They are two forwards who Newcastle United pushed to buy, but they chose to join the Blues instead.
What Newcastle United will do if they fail to sign Hugo Ekitike
Newcastle United have a real battle on their hands to land Ekitike. Some will fear they are fighting a losing battle.
Howe will take his striker search elsewhere if that is the case, and Bailey has told Geordie Boot Boys that Newcastle do have alternatives to Ekitike that they are exploring.
“I am told Newcastle have other options too,” Bailey added.
“This is not Ekitike and that’s it. They do have others on their radar too.”
In terms of alternatives, Yoane Wissa is a Newcastle target. While he would be a step down from Ekitike, he would be an exciting addition who is proven in the Premier League.
Elsewhere, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Ollie Watkins have been linked.
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