Sport

Newcastle's Bold Move for Hugo Ekitike: Striker Duo or Replacement for Isak?

2025-07-15

Author: Jacques

Newcastle United is making headlines with their ambitious pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike, sparking excitement—and anxiety—among fans as the club considers breaking their transfer record.

The Magpies kicked off their efforts with an initial bid of £70 million, which was swiftly rejected by the Bundesliga side. As negotiations continue, Newcastle is eyeing what would become a landmark deal for the promising young striker.

Interestingly, as Newcastle moves forward, Premier League champions Liverpool appear to be circling Alexander Isak, casting even more shadows of uncertainty over the situation.

Rumor has it that Liverpool's interest in Isak has escalated recently, with reports suggesting a potential package deal could reach up to £130 million. However, Newcastle has asserted that their star striker is off the market.

With a vision to establish a dynamic and adaptable attack, Newcastle's coaching staff admires Ekitike's versatility as a forward, who’s demonstrated an impressive ability to score from various positions.

But here’s the burning question: With both Ekitike and Isak showcasing similar playing styles, will they complement each other or could Ekitike be groomed as a replacement?

Isak, Newcastle's record signing at £63 million from Real Sociedad, has proven his worth with 54 league goals in just three seasons. Fans would argue that every penny spent on him has been justified.

Last season, both players found themselves playing as loan strikers for their teams, with Ekitike netting 15 goals and providing 8 assists as Frankfurt clinched a third-place finish in the Bundesliga.

Matthew Raisbeck from BBC Newcastle suggests that Newcastle is hopeful Ekitike and Isak could thrive together, blending their distinct playing styles for a more lethal attack.

Even though Newcastle’s formation typically features a single central striker, Ekitike’s arrival may allow for tactical flexibility, offering different ways to approach opponents.

Despite Newcastle having considerable talent in their forward line, the addition of Ekitike could enhance both their quality and depth, a need that became apparent during last season's campaign.

While both forwards have excelled as central strikers, Newcastle's tactic of using Isak centrally appears non-negotiable, especially given his tally of 23 goals in just 34 games.

Ekitike, on the other hand, is not just a scorer; he has also ranked among the top 6% of forwards in the Bundesliga for creating chances.

Newcastle's interest in Ekitike isn't new. Since January 2021, under new ownership, they initially aimed to secure him but ultimately opted for Isak last summer.

German football expert Constantin Eckner highlights Ekitike's tactical awareness, capable of playing both as a lone striker or within a two-striker framework.

Ekitike's past partnership with Omar Marmoush at Frankfurt showcased his adaptability, until circumstances forced him to adapt to a solitary role.

Expectations from Frankfurt suggest they are prepared to part ways with Ekitike only if offered £86 million, reflecting their model of nurturing talent for financial gain.

As Newcastle gears up for potentially transformative changes, the prospect of Ekitike joining Isak in attack has fans buzzing with anticipation. Will Newcastle pull it off?