Reims striker Hugo Ekitike is wanted by Arsenal as well as Newcastle United – but his injury problems may just hamper his price tag this summer.
That’s according to The Chronicle, who claim that Arsenal are keeping close tabs on Ekitike ahead of a possible move for him this summer.
Just look at Arsenal’s attacking options; Alexander Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract and currently set to leave the club.
It therefore makes some sense to bring in a big-name striker and then maybe go for an up-and-comer like Ekitike to develop over the coming years.
Ekitike has emerged as a sensation this season, bagging 10 goals and three assists in 23 games for the Reims first team.
The 19-year-old has been likened to Kylian Mbappe, David Trezeguet and even Thierry Henry whilst being branded ‘very special’ by boss Oscar Garcia.
That would be an exciting move for Arsenal, though we can’t rule Newcastle out of the race.
Newcastle made a move for Ekitike in January and had a deal agreed on deadline day, but the teenager rejected the transfer.
Newcastle will be looking to spend this summer with striking options still wanted, and Ekitike will surely be on their radar again.
However, The Chronicle’s report suggests that Reims may not be able to demand a huge transfer fee now because of Ekitike’s injury record.
The striker has been out since February and has now suffered a setback meaning he may not play again this season.
Reims may have been hoping for a bidding war but are now facing up to Ekitike’s injury problems scuppering those hopes.
Arsenal and Newcastle may now be looking at a potential bargain deal, with Ekitike still bound auto attract some level of interest this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
