The Athletic report that Newcastle could return to sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike in the summer, after the club had a bid accepted on deadline day. Reports claim that his family wanted a move, but he chose to stay at Reims.
Branded “special” by his manager Oscar Garcia, 19-year-old Ekitike has been in superb form for Ligue 1 side Reims this season. Clocking up 20 of his 22 senior appearances for the club, he has had a hand in 13 goals.
Nine he has scored himself, while also laying on four assists. Reports on deadline day stated that Reims accepted a £33million package for Ekitike and his family wanted him to move – only for Ekitike to decide to stay.
Now, a summary from The Athletic on Newcastle’s mad January window states that there is a chance Newcastle could return for Ekitike in the summer. Eddie Howe is set to want young back-up for Callum Wilson.
Newcastle to pursue Ekitike: Ideal cover for Wilson, and Wood
With Wilson and Chris Wood on board, Newcastle have two ideal number nines. When England star Wilson is fit, he is likely to start while Wood is a superb option from the bench if the Toon need goal with 30 minutes left.
The question might be asked, do Newcastle need a third striker? Well, no, not in the mould of Wilson or Wood, anyway. What they need is a player happy to sit on the bench – one that can play in a variety of positions.
Ekitike is that. His age means he would surely be happy to await his chance and for either Wilson or Wood to get an injury. Compared to Kylian Mbappe, Ekitike can also play out wide. Newcastle should revisit a move.
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