Newcastle United transfer rumours as Hugo Ekitke deal said to be 'close'

Your Newcastle United transfer round-up for Thursday, June 2.

Various outlets are reporting that Newcastle and Reims are 'close' to completing a deal for Hugo Ekitke. A last-minute attempt to sign the 19-year-old striker fell through in January - despite a £35million fee being agreed.

Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: "Newcastle are now getting closer to sign Hugo Ekitike from Reims after Deadline Day twist in January. Talks progressing between clubs, as per @Santi_J_FM. Been told final fee could be close to €30m plus €5m add-ons. Newcastle have been leading the race for weeks."

Journalist Graeme Bailey claims Newcastle have “a real chance” of signing Sven Botman. The Magpies failed in their pursuit of the Lille defender in January but guaranteed Premier League football next season has reignited interest.

Speaking to the Talking Transfers podcast, Bailey believes Newcastle have a genuine chance of getting their man. He said: “Botman’s agents have gone out there and said to all interested parties, ‘look, this deal isn’t done, you can still get him’ and Newcastle, being a player they love, their interest has emerged again and this has got a real chance of happening. Newcastle love Botman.”

Joao Pedro will cost Newcastle £34million this summer, according to Brazilian outlet UOL. A fire sale will likely commence at Watford following relegation to the Championship, with the forward - who bagged a late equaliser at St James’ park in January - considered one of their prized assets.

The piece suggests Benfica and West Ham are also vying for the 20-year-old’s signature. Pedro has established himself as a fans’ favourite at Vicarage Road but will unlikely fancy Championship football. However, with just three goals