Massive Newcastle threat for Hugo Ekitike with European side ‘pushing’ for striker’s capture

Newcastle United could be beaten to the signing of Hugo Ekitike after Fabrizio Romano revealed a significant European club to be ‘pushing’ for him.

Ekitike came through the Reims academy in his native France and, after a loan spell in Denmark, made it into the French team’s senior squad over the summer. He has gone on to enjoy a great debut campaign in Ligue 1 this season.

The striker has managed 10 goals and five assists in 25 matches so far. His output could have been more if it weren’t for a hamstring injury between late February and early May.

Ekitike, who is still only 19, has helped Reims reach 12th in the French top flight. Should they manage to consolidate this position with one game left, then this would represent a slight improvement on last season.

Reims finished 14th during 2020-21, on four points less than they have currently.

Of course, it didn’t always look as though Ekitike would spend the full campaign in Ligue 1.

Newcastle were hoping to bring him to the Premier League in January. Negotiations went on until deep into transfer deadline day.

Reports claim Ekitike rejected the Magpies as he was worried about taking part in a relegation battle.

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