Newcastle United eyeing Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as they prepare for potential exit of Alexander Isak | OneFootball

Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike ahead of the summer transfer window as they prepare for the potential exit of Alexander Isak, according to Sky Sports Switzerland.

The Magpies could lose the Sweden international at the end of the season if they fail to secure Champions League football for next season, and they are putting contingency plans in place.

Ekitike has notched 18 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions so far this term and the St James Park club have been attracted to his form.

Frankfurt want at least €80 million from suitors to sell the 22-year-old, and Newcastle could be willing to meet their demands as they are expected to make almost double of that if Isak gets sold.

The Magpies are in talks with the representatives of Ekitike to make enquiries about what it would take to acquire his services, but they are not the only ones keen on the former Paris Saint-Germain star, with Arsenal and West Ham United also interested in bringing him to the Premier League.

The France youth international is currently enjoying the best campaign of his career having struggled for form and playing chances while at PSG, and a move to Newcastle will only appeal to him if he is guaranteed a spot in the starting XI of manager Eddie Howe.

The Toons will be desperate to hold on to Isak beyond this season, but they are aware he wants to be playing regularly in the elite European competition and could be forced to sell him if he expresses a desire to move on.

They need a perfect replacement should the Swede move on, and Ekitike could be the best option to fill the shoes of the 25-year-old.

Newcastle are also reportedly watching Ipswich Town star Liam Delap, RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko and Lille striker Jonathan David should they need to replace their prolific number 9, and it is a decision they need to get right.