Newcastle United will sign Reims ace Hugo Ekitike and one other striker in the summer transfer window, reports have claimed.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe has two strikers on his wanted list as he looks to bolster his squad. And according to journalist Dean Jones he will get his wish with Ekitike the big signing. Jones also expects another striker to arrive at St James’ Park.
Newcastle have been linked with some big names already. Indeed reports have suggested that Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is a top target for Howe. However it is now looking as though the £84million asking price could be a little rich.
It has often been reported that money is not an issue for Newcastle. The club’s new Saudi owners have plenty of it. But it seems as though they are keen to stay well within the boundaries of Financial Fair Play. It means that a big outlay on Osimhen is off the table for now.
Newcastle are looking at less expensive options and Ekitike is one of them. The 19-year-old is no stranger to Newcastle. In fact they apparently came close to signing him in January.
A deal failed to materialise and he ended up staying with Reims. It is claimed that a deal may have happened but late interest from elsewhere ruined it. Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain were the two clubs and Ekitike opted to sit tight.
A move looks sure to happen in the summer though and Newcastle face a battle. There is now talk of Sevilla, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Juventus being keen. Manchester United have also been linked.
However Jones is claiming that Newcastle will win the race and get the deal done.
Speaking to GiveMeSport Jones said: “Ekitike is still going to be a guy that probably comes in and one other. That is the one position where he (Eddie Howe) probably will look to sign an exciting name; he’s happy to do that.”
Hugo Ekitike a gamble
The signing of Ekitike carries a certain amount of risk, all signings do. But Newcastle would be taking a gamble here. The 19-year-old clearly has talent and has plenty of time on his side.
He has also shown he has an eye for goal. Ekitike has scored nine goals in 21 appearances this season. He also has three assists. However the majority of his goals came earlier in the season. Things have not gone to plan since then.
The youngster has not played since late February after picking up a hamstring injury. Discipline could also be an issue. He has been sent off on four occasions this season. Put that down to youthful exuberance if you like. It is unlikely to deter Newcastle who may have seen enough already. However there are one or two things to consider before splashing out £33million.
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