Four forwards Newcastle could target as Ekitike alternatives | OneFootball

Newcastle United are on the hunt for a new centre-forward after seeing a bid for Hugo Ekitike rejected earlier this week.

The Magpies look set to lose their transfer battle with Liverpool for the Eintracht Frankfurt forward, but might have won the war after retaining Alexander Isak, who himself is subject of interest from the Reds.

Callum Wilson’s exit has left Eddie Howe in search of a new centre-forward and we’ve profiled four players with different qualities that we believe could be a good fit at St James’ Park.

Four forwards Newcastle could target as Hugo Ekitike alternatives

Georges Mikautadze – Lyon

Lyon have seen their relegation to Ligue 2 amid financial concerns overturned but issues remain at Groupama Stadium. Financial problems are prevalent and could lead to the sale of big names this summer.

Georges Mikautadze is sure to attract interest, having followed an impressive Euro 2024 with a solid first season at Lyon. The Georgian top-scored at the European Championship before his move to Lyon from Metz 12 months ago.

Mikautadze scored 17 goals in all competitions last season despite not always being a regular. He returned 11 goals from just 13 league starts and averaged a goal or assist every 87.5 minutes across Ligue 1 and the Europa League.

He profiles well in comparison to Ekitike with strong numbers for progressive carries, successful take-ons, assists and penalty-box touches per 90.

Yoane Wissa – Brentford

Newcastle are set to register interest in signing Yoane Wissa, following a brilliant season for the Brentford forward. The DR Congo international scored 19 goals in the Premier League last season, with his 19 non-penalty goals level with Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak.

Howe has often preferred Premier League proven talent, while Wissa would likely to be willing to accept his role as chief support to Isak in order to facilitate a step up to Champions League football.

The sticking point will be the price tag, with Brentford valuing Wissa in excess of £40m. Newcastle may not be willing to go so high for a player who turns 29 in September. Spurs have also shown interest.

Jean-Philippe Mateta – Crystal Palace

Jean-Phillipe Mateta’s evolution at Crystal Palace has been remarkable over the last two seasons.

The Frenchman endured two-and-a-half modest campaigns with the Eagles, before exploding in output in 2023/24 to win Crystal Palace’s Player of the Season.

Mateta has netted 30 goals in the Premier League over the last two seasons and has all the attributes to thrive at St James’ Park. A powerful presence with instinctive finishing and good link-up play, he could be an ideal focal point alongside – or in the absence of – Alexander Isak.

The 28-year-old may be concerned with his potential minutes in the North East, but the lure of the Champions League would be strong at this stage of his career.

Lois Openda – RB Leipzig

A different profile of player to the others on this list but one that may appeal to Newcastle.

Openda has a proven track record of goals with prolific periods in the Netherlands, France and Germany, including 41 goals in 89 games since joining RB Leipzig in 2023.

Despite a downturn in form last season, Openda still returned a respectable 13 goals. Now may be the time to invest while his stock has taken a slight dip.

The Belgium international has experience as a lone forward and in partnership with Benjamin Sesko and boasts electric pace.

The threat of Openda’s speed in transition alongside Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon would put fear into opposition sides.

Read – Hugo Ekitike: The Isak-lite that has Premier League clubs scrambling

See more – 20 top players whose contracts expire in 2026

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