Following the takeover of Newcastle United by a Saudi Arabian consortium, one of their first big-money signings arrived in the form of Swedish frontman Alexander Isak, who joined the Magpies from Spanish side Real Sociedad.
Isak has been pivotal to Eddie Howe’s side since his arrival and has grown in value significantly. However, Newcastle are currently in talks to bolster their frontline with the addition of Hugo Ekitike, but what will he bring?
Hugo Ekitike’s Abilities
Valued at 72 million euros, the young Frenchman is a very similar striker to Alexander Isak in his style.
Ekitike is strong, powerful and has a deadly eye for goal and a ferocious finish. Ekitike also has an element of dynamism to his play, as well as being able to hold the ball up, something that Newcastle would be looking for in a striker.
Ekitike appeared in 33 matches for Eintracht Frankfurt last season, scoring 15 goals and also assisting eight, which was crucial to his side’s stunning third-place finish in the league.
Ten of his goals were scored via his right foot, indicating that this is where the striker is strongest.
In addition to the goalscoring, Ekitike has also featured in European competition. The forward has played matches in both the Champions League and the Conference League, therefore, he should apply himself well if he undergoes European competition with Newcastle.
What Does This Mean for Newcastle?
The first thought for many with this addition would be that Ekitike would be Isak’s successor for the Magpies.
However, the players are aged just two years apart, thus detracting from that suggestion. In addition to this, Ekitike would not join the club to apply himself from the bench, thus indicating that Isak and Ekitike would play together.
Isak, of course, may depart the club. However, this may be unlikely with the sizeable fee required for the player.
Newcastle, therefore, may have to change formation should the two players play together, as they currently play in a formation with a singular striker. They may opt for a 3-5-2 and sacrifice a winger or full-back.
However, following the addition of Anthony Elanga, they may opt to sacrifice a central midfielder and revert to a 4-4-2.
This indicates that the player who may be sacrificed is Joelinton, therefore meaning that the Magpies would operate with Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
Joelinton has undergone a transformation with Newcastle from a lacklustre striker to a competent central midfielder, and therefore, to sacrifice the Brazilian would be a harsh decision, but a necessary one.
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How Ekitike Could Transform Newcastle’s Attack
If Eddie Howe were to sign Ekitike, they may be crafting one of the most feared strike partnerships in the Premier League. The Frenchman has previously had interest from the likes of Liverpool, and many believe he would adjust well to the Premier League.
Ekitike would also change Newcastle as a team. A two-striker formation in the Premier League is less common nowadays,
However, it would be necessary to accommodate the signing. This would mean that Eddie Howe would adjust the play style of the Northern side. In such a manner, though, that many players would be used to.
Overall, many will believe that the Frenchman would be a statement signing for Newcastle and, alongside his potential compatriot Isak, many will be keen to see how Newcastle do in the Premier League next season if they make this signing.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Kessler-Sportfotografie
Recording Date: 15.07.2025