Jeunes Footeux report that Newcastle United are willing to pay as much as £42million to sign Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick. The Czech star has been on fire in the Bundesliga this season – as Newcastle eye a striker.
Of course, numerous reports suggest that Burnley striker Chris Wood is on his way to Tyneside in order to complete a deal believed to be worth £25million. A medical is said to have taken place on Tuesday night.
But Fabrizio Romano states that Newcastle are also after another striker, and remain in talks with Reims for talented teen Hugo Ekitike. Romano says a deal for Ekitike is “complicated”, they might move elsewhere.
Back in December, 90Min said Newcastle were one of a number of Premier League clubs scouting Schick – along with the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal. Sky Sports reported this week, that he would cost £50million.
Now, the report from Jeunes Footeux states that Newcastle are ready to table an offer worth £42million – £8million short of the asking price. It is unclear if Schick would consider a move to Tyneside, this month.
Schick to Newcastle: Do Toon need to buy another striker?
Not particularly, even though Schick would be a superb addition. With Wood incoming, and Callum Wilson likely to be fit by March, Newcastle have two very solid options up top. They do not need Schick, so much.
Yes, he would be an improvement on Wilson and Wood – and at just 25, he is a much more long-term option. Perhaps a player they could go after in the summer, after his 17 goals in 19 Bundesliga appearances this season.
But signing a youngster in Ekitike makes more sense. With Schick, Newcastle would have three players expecting to start. In Ekitike, they have a player who – given his age – would be willing to sit on the bench, initially.
Of course, a £42million fee would be a Newcastle club record – eclipsing Joelinton’s £40million move.
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