It is believed the Reds have agreed to pay a potential further £10 million in add-ons to sign the 23-year-old Frenchman, whose overall price tag could reach £79 million.

Newcastle left Alexander Isak out of their squad as they were beaten 4-0 by Celtic in their first pre-season friendly.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League champions have agreed on an initial €90 million (£78 million) fee for Ekitiké which could rise by a further €5 million with add-ons.