Newcastle close in on £36m capture of Reims striker Hugo Ekitike… as one of Europe’s most exciting prospects makes a U-turn after turning down Eddie Howe’s side in January
- Eddie Howe has made getting a striker a priority in the summer transfer window
- The Magpies are now closing in on the £36million capture of Hugo Ekitike
- At 19, the teenager is one of the most sought after strikers across Europe
Newcastle United are closing on a deal to sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike for around £36million.
The 19-year-old has agreed to join Newcastle despite interest from Borussia Dortmund and is due to sign a five-year contract.
Ekitike is regarded as one of the best young strikers in Europe after blossoming under Reims boss Oscar Garcia, the former Watford and Brighton coach.
Eddie Howe is thought to be prioritising signing a striker in the summer transfer window
Sportsmail revealed in January how the France U20 international had emerged as a target for Newcastle’s new owners.
The teenager initially rebuffed their approaches saying ‘it wasn’t the right time’ to join in January but he has been impressed by their persistence and wants to test himself in the Premier League.
Talks were ongoing on Wednesday night as the clubs try to iron out the structure of the final fee plus add-ons and agents fees.
Ekitike’s arrival will be a major boost for manager Eddie Howe who wanted a young forward to lead his new-look side.
Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin has also been discussed but Ekitike has been their prime objective.
Newcastle remain in talks over a deal or Lille defender Sven Botman and Aston Villa left-back Matt Targett, who is also wanted by Fulham.
***
Read more at DailyMail.co.uk