'Agreed in principle': Hugo Ekitike move looks to be on for Liverpool after Newcastle United withdraw from race
It was reported this morning that Newcastle United had walked away from trying to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, leaving Liverpool to step in.
This will now be the third time Newcastle have tried, and failed, to sign the French striker after two failed attempts in 2022. Hopefully, this one brings about an end to the chase for good.
Earlier today, the reports were mixed over whether Newcastle had entirely given up on Ekitike after it was reported that Yoane Wissa had become a priority target, but as the day has progressed, it seems as though Newcastle have fully ended their interest in Ekitike.
Indeed, Keith Downie has now said via X that Hugo Ekitike has agreed in principle to join the Premier League champions, provided the two clubs can agree a fee.
Keith Downie claims an agreement between Ekitike and Liverpool is in place
Downie also makes sure to mention that should Ekitike move to Anfield, it will end Liverpool's interest in Alexander Isak.
🚨 Hugo Ekitike wants to join Liverpool.
🤝 The striker has agreed in principle to the move if a deal can be struck between the clubs.
📃 And Liverpool have indicated to Eintracht Frankurt that they are ready to make an official offer.
🗣️ Talks are progressing and things are expected to move quickly.
💰 Frankfurt value Ekitike at £85m.
❌ Newcastle had a £70m offer for him turned down on Monday and are unlikely to go back in.
🇸🇪 If Ekitike moves to Liverpool they will give up their pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.
#NUFC #LFC
We suspect Newcastle have a secret target to go alongside Alexander Isak
We will never know the full story behind this transfer saga and whether Newcastle were genuinely trying to sign Ekitike, or whether they made this move purely to entice Liverpool into making a move and forgetting about Isak.
Newcastle will now have to move very quickly if they want to sign Yoane Wissa from Brentford, as reported, as Manchester United have increased their offer for Bryan Mbeumo, and the Bees aren't willing to let both players go.
Although we've still got a sneaking suspicion that Newcastle have another target entirely in mind that we don't know about yet. A surprise move is how we roll, and Anthony Elanga wasn't a shock to anyone, so surely they've still got one in store.
