Keith Downie has commented on the ongoing discussions between Newcastle United and Eintracht Frankfurt regarding a deal for striker Hugo Ekitike this summer. Following initial reports of interest on Saturday, it has now been confirmed that the 23-year-old is a primary target for the club, with efforts underway to finalize the deal swiftly.
However, it has been confirmed that manager Eddie Howe intends to pair Isak and Ekitike together in the upcoming season.
Despite the current plan to feature both players, Keith Downie has indicated that Howe’s strategy may not be sustainable in the long term. He suggests that Ekitike’s signing could lead to Isak’s departure from the team. Newcastle is looking to extend Isak’s contract this summer to safeguard their investment and fend off interest from Liverpool. There are concerns that if Isak isn’t secured to a new deal before the Premier League season kicks off, it might complicate matters.
Ekitike’s potential £60 million+ transfer would make him Newcastle’s new record signing, surpassing Isak’s £63 million fee from 2022. Downie intimates that Hugo Ekitike could also be seen as Isak’s long-term successor. On Sky Sports News, Downie explained the situation: “You have to look at it in terms of succession planning for Newcastle. Alexander Isak isn’t going to be around here forever. Yes, Newcastle wants to pin him down to a new deal, and they hope to have talks later on this summer. Those talks need to begin, and while he has three years left on his contract, if he doesn’t sign a new deal, it changes the scenario entirely next summer.”
He continued, “Newcastle might feel they need to cash in on a player with just two years left on his contract, especially one that could be valued north of £100 million. If Hugo Ekitike comes in, plays alongside Isak for a season, and gains valuable experience, that could make sense. If Isak were to leave next summer, Ekitike would be the ideal candidate to step in. But for now, they’ll at least have a season together.”
Even with concerns regarding Isak’s future amid talks for Hugo Ekitike, it is clear that the Magpies do not intend to sell him this summer, regardless of any substantial offers. Downie also stated that he does not foresee Isak leaving this summer; however, the groundwork seems to be laid for a potential future move. While Isak’s long-term future may be uncertain, Howe is actively preparing for a scenario where Isak remains integral to the team in the years ahead. Isak is highly valued by chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who has urged Howe to retain him at all costs. Moreover, Howe is reportedly constructing a team around Isak this summer to ensure his satisfaction and maximize his potential.
With Anthony Elanga officially joining Newcastle, Hugo Ekitike could be the next significant addition to the squad.
