Newcastle transfer news: 'Definite interest' in 20-goal Ekitike alternative

Newcastle are keen on signing Benfica striker Darwin Nunez on Deadline Day, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Magpies have already signed a forward this month as they managed to entice Chris Wood away from Burnley, and they could look to further strengthen their attack in the final hours of the transfer window.

Nunez has also been linked with West Ham in recent days, and the Hammers are said to be hopeful of getting a deal done for the 22-year-old. 

However, Newcastle have also shown an interest in the Uruguay international, and they could still jump ahead of David Moyes' side in the queue for his signature before Monday's 11pm deadline.

Eddie Howe's side have also shown a strong interest in Reims forward Hugo Ekitike, and reportedly agreed a deal for the 19-year-old on Monday morning, but it has now been claimed that this move has stalled, which could open the door for Newcastle to make a move for Nunez.

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Downie has claimed that Newcastle admire Nunez's qualities, but has admitted that they are still some way off agreeing a deal with Benfica for the youngster at this stage.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT about Newcastle's chances of landing Nunez, Downie said: “I think there’s a definite interest in Nunez. I don’t think there’s anything close, as I understand.”

Having broken into the Benfica first-team last season, Nunez had a positive campaign with the Portuguese outfit, registering six goals and 10 assists in the league in 2020/21.

He seems to have taken his game to a new level altogether this term, though. In just 16 top-flight appearances, he has found the net on 15 occasions. This has included scoring two hat-tricks, which