Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano claims Newcastle’s interest is genuine. He told his YouTube channel: “Newcastle are working on the deal to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. I told you last week and I maintain my position. Newcastle want Ekitike. They wanted Joao Pedro before he went to Chelsea so they are still looking to add one more offensive player.

“They believe Ekitike is perfect for Eddie Howe in terms of skills, potential and goals to bring to the squad and play Champions League football. Newcastle are working hard on the deal to sign Hugo Ekitike.

“He is a top target for them, really pushing now and working on the agreement on the player’s side at Eintracht. Of course, he is an expensive player so it is not an easy deal but Newcastle are in it in these hours, not three or four weeks. Let them work and see what is going to happen.

“Newcastle are really interested in Hugo Ekitike and are in contact with people in the deal. Let’s follow the situation but for sure, Hugo Ekitike and the Premier League is going to be one of the stories in the second-half of this summer transfer window.”