On July 16th, Paris Saint-Germain announced the signing of Hugo Ekitike, after fending off interest from Newcastle.
The 20-year-old joins PSG on a season-long loan, which is expected to be turned into a permanent deal for £25.5m next summer.
Interestingly, Ekitike joined the Ligue 1 champions despite Newcastle offering him and Reims more money.
Now, the young striker has shared why he rejected the Magpies in favour of PSG.
What’s the story?
Well, Ekitike seems to have a lot of respect for Newcastle, but is keen to stress that he simply couldn’t turn PSG down.
Speaking to le10sport, the France Under-20 international said: “I’m not setting aside everything Newcastle did for me to come. If I had to go abroad, I would have gone there. But when PSG wants you and you’re French, you can’t refuse. All those who positioned themselves were big clubs.”
Had PSG not been interested in Ekitike, it seems he almost certainly would’ve joined Newcastle.
The Reims-born forward also sounds grateful to Newcastle for the effort they put into their pursuit.
Ultimately, Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth – Director of Football at Newcastle – were fighting a losing battle as soon as PSG became involved.
Somewhat ironically, things could’ve been different if Newcastle hired Luis Campos as Director of Football instead of Ashworth – a man who actually wanted the job – as Ekitike admits he has a close relationship with the Portuguese negotiator.
The PSG No.44 continued: “I had an appointment with Luis (Campos) which meant a lot to me. It was not so long ago. We talked a lot, he is someone I value a lot. I wanted to come to PSG before this exchange, but he convinced me even more.”
PSG have a Hugo Ekitike alternative for Newcastle
Interestingly, Christophe Galtier now has two strikers Newcastle admire.
Aside from Ekitike, PSG own Arnaud Kalimuendo, a striker who is said to be a target for Newcastle and Leeds.
Therefore, PSG can say sorry for pinching Ekitike from the Magpies by sanctioning a move for Kalimuendo, who has been the subject of a £20m bid from Leeds.
Keep an eye on this situation, as we would be very surprised if Newcastle failed to sign a striker this summer.
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