Can they afford him? What would the deal mean for Isak? Our reporters dissect the news Newcastle are in talks to sign the French forward

The Newcastle United transfer agenda has had more twists and turns than Alton Towers this last week, and yet here we are with nothing much changed. Hugo Ekitike looks destined for Liverpool, while talks over extending Alexander Isak's contract continue.

Newcastle had wanted to partner Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike in attack, but have ended their interest in the Frenchman who now looks set to join Liverpool

Liverpool have made contact with Eintracht Frankfurt over a possible move for Hugo Ekitike, who is also being targeted by Newcastle United. The Athletic reported on July 14 that Newcastle tried to secure Ekitike via an offer worth around €75million (£64.9m; $86.9m), which was turned down by Frankfurt.

Newcastle tried and failed to sign Hugo Ekitike in 2022 and have seen a new club-record £70m bid turned down this week; the Magpies want Ekitike to play alongside Alexander Isak; Newcastle have held t

Confidence is growing that Newcastle can quickly wrap up the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt after sending club officials to Germany to finalise the transfer, and with David Ornstein revealing how his arrival will impact the Magpies’ side,