Three reasons Newcastle United are desperate to land Hugo Ekitke

Newcastle United are edging closer to announcing a deal that will bring Reims striker Hugo Ekitike to the club. The 19-year-old is highly sought after following his impressive 2021-22 season, finding the net 10 times in 24 Ligue 1 appearances.

With the Magpies once more looking to bolster their options heading into the 22/23 campaign, Ekitike has been identified as a young forward who the club can mould into their own ideal attacking threat. Still a teenager, the French Under 20 international stands at 6ft 2in and will give Howe a different dimension in attack, whilst also providing solid competition for both Callum Wilson and Chris Wood.

The Magpies scouting department have clearly seen something very special in the young striker. Here's three key reasons, identified by tactical analysis site Talking Tactics, why United are willing to part with around €30m to attain Ekitike's services.

With Wilson and Wood both 30, Newcastle could strike gold by securing a forward who can still develop for years to come. His integration into the first team is expected to be gradual with Bruno Guimaraes showing that new signings have to be patient, regardless of the transfer fee.

With Wilson often struggling with injuries, the 19-year-old will be expected to fill in and hope to keep his shirt too should Wood also continue to struggle in front of goal for Howe's side. It is also feasible that Ekitike could be used in a wide position, something he has done on occasion for Reims, should he arrive on Tyneside.

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