Eintracht Frankfurt reject €80m written offer from Newcastle United for Hugo Ekitike | OneFootball

Newcastle United have tabled a written offer worth €80 million for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike this morning as manager Eddie Howe looks to bolster his options at the St James’ Park club, according to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.

However, the Bundesliga club have rejected it mainly due to the payment terms and it remains to be seen if Newcastle plan to return with an improved structure or terms.

Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche wants more from suitors for Ekitike, and there are clubs who have already indicated that they would be willing to pay more.

Newcastle paid Real Sociedad for Aleksander Isak in the summer of 2022 but are ready to break the bank for the 23-year-old Frankfurt star.

The France youth international bagged 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 games across all competitions last season, and the Magpies are keen on recruiting his services despite the presence of Isak.

They are preparing for Champions League football next season and Howe wants a striker to play alongside the Sweden international and complement him.

Ekitike fits the bill given his experience and quality, and the former Paris Saint-Germain striker could be open to the move as impressing in the Premier League would boost his chances of forcing his way into the French national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

However, he could have his doubts as Newcastle do not play a double-striker system and it remains to be seen how they plan to start doing so next term.

The youngster needs to be playing regularly to maintain his current form, and playing second fiddle to Isak at SJP is the last thing he wants after his outstanding campaign in front of goal last term.

Frankfurt want top dollar for him and Newcastle will need to return to the table with something better than their last offer if they want to have any chance of pipping competition to his services.