Newcastle seem to be huge admirers of Hugo Ekitike – however, the feeling doesn’t appear to be mutual as far as the Frenchman is concerned.
What’s the story?
Well, Newcastle saw a £26m bid accepted by Reims for Ekitike back in June 2022.
However, the bid to sign the 20-year-old collapsed after he chose to reject the Magpies and join Paris Saint-Germain instead.
It probably wasn’t the wisest idea from Ekitike as he found himself competing against the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar for a starting role, and things have turned out as expected.
The France Under-20 international has only scored four goals in 27 appearances, most of which have come as a substitute, and L’Equipe now believe PSG are ready to sell him with Newcastle still interested.
However, Eddie Howe could be rejected by Ekitike once again.
Foot Mercato believe the PSG No.44 is determined to make it at the Parc des Princes, and will fight to stay in Paris.
Newcastle have alternatives to Hugo Ekitike
Howe clearly sees something special in Ekitike, and while the French wonderkid is a superb prospect, Newcastle have alternatives if they are rejected once again.
For example, another bright young talent in Joao Pedro is performing well for Watford, and the Magpies are said to also have an interest in him – according to The Athletic.
Newcastle failed with a £25m bid for the Brazilian in 2022, before signing another young talent in Alexander Isak for £63m.
Watford have since handed Pedro the captain’s armband, which suggests he is a leader despite a lack of experience at the age of 21 – it could also be an attempt to convince him to stay.
Clearly, Howe is focused on recruiting those who have immense potential but can also make an impact immediately, which should excite Newcastle fans – keep an eye on developments, as we expect signings to be made this summer.
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