Opening bid for striker is rejected

NEWCASTLE United's opening bid for Hugo Ekitike has been rejected, according to sources in Germany.

- By LEE RYDER Chief Newcastle writer

Now the question on Tyneside is whether Newcastle will go back with an enhanced offer as rivals monitor events from the sidelines.

Newcastle were trying to get business done quietly on this deal before leaks emerged from the Frankfurt camp - and those leaks continued yesterday.

Sky Germany were briefed by Eintracht Frankfurt that an offer just under £70m was knocked back by the Bundesliga club. It is understood that the striker has an £86m release clause and that Frankfurt want a bigger bid from the Magpies.