Newcastle End Pursuit of Ekitike

Newcastle United have officially withdrawn from their long-running pursuit of French forward Hugo Ekitike after their £70 million offer was rejected by Eintracht Frankfurt. The Magpies, determined to bring in a centre-forward this summer, are now shifting their attention to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa as they look to bolster their attacking line.

The failed Ekitike pursuit marks the end of a saga that dates back to the forward’s time at Paris Saint-Germain, and Newcastle’s management is now keen to act quickly to secure a new target.

Interest in Wissa Intensifies

Within the next 24 hours, Newcastle are expected to step up their efforts to sign Yoane Wissa, with talks set to advance soon. The 28-year-old Congolese international has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest. However, Newcastle’s ability to offer Champions League football could prove decisive in swaying Wissa’s decision.

Although interest from St James’ Park is not yet as advanced as that of the other clubs, sources close to the club suggest an acceleration is imminent.

Brentford’s Reluctance and Wissa’s Openness

Brentford are reportedly reluctant to sell both Yoane Wissa and fellow forward Bryan Mbeumo in the same transfer window. Mbeumo is a known target for Manchester United, further complicating Brentford’s summer plans. Despite the club’s position, Wissa is said to be open to a move—especially to a Champions League side—if the opportunity arises.

Since arriving from Lorient in 2021, Wissa has established himself as a reliable Premier League performer, netting 45 goals in 137 appearances for the Bees.

Liverpool Eye Ekitike Amid Isak Stand-Off

Meanwhile, Liverpool have entered the picture for Hugo Ekitike as a potential backup to their primary attacking target: Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. However, Newcastle have made it clear that Isak is not for sale under any circumstances, prompting Liverpool to consider increasing their efforts for Ekitike.

With Ekitike’s move to Newcastle now off the table, the Reds could emerge as favourites to sign the French forward in the coming days.

What’s Next for Newcastle?

Eddie Howe is eager to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign, especially with the Magpies set to return to European competition. The urgency to bring in a forward has grown after recent transfer setbacks, and the club is now expected to open formal negotiations with Brentford for Wissa shortly.

While a deal is not guaranteed, Newcastle believe that their offer of top-level European football and a more prominent role could entice Wissa to make the switch.

FAQs

Q: Why did Newcastle pull out of the Ekitike deal?
A: Eintracht Frankfurt rejected Newcastle’s £70 million offer, and negotiations stalled due to fresh complications.

Q: Who is Yoane Wissa?
A: Yoane Wissa is a 28-year-old Congolese striker who has scored 45 goals in 137 appearances for Brentford since 2021.

Q: Are other clubs interested in Wissa?
A: Yes, Tottenham and Nottingham Forest are also pursuing the Brentford forward.

Q: Will Brentford sell Wissa?
A: Brentford are hesitant to lose both Wissa and Mbeumo, but Wissa is reportedly open to leaving, especially for Champions League football.

Q: What’s Liverpool’s role in this transfer scenario?
A: Liverpool are now interested in signing Hugo Ekitike as a backup option, with Newcastle unwilling to sell Isak.