Newcastle explore club record deal for Frankfurt’s Ekitike

Newcastle have made a move to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.

The 23-year-old scored 15 goals and made eight assists last season as his side finished third in the Bundesliga.

Sources said Newcastle are now exploring a potential deal to sign the Frenchman, who would likely cost more than £70m.

Despite the interest in Ekitike, BBC Sport has been told Newcastle have no interest in selling last season’s top scorer Alexander Isak who has been linked with clubs across Europe including Liverpool.

Sweden striker Isak, 25, joined from Real Sociedad in 2022 for £63m, which is currently the club’s record purchase.

Newcastle finished fifth in the Premier League last season qualifying for the Champions League.