Newcastle United came very close to signing Hugo Ekitike during the January transfer window.
The French forward emerged as a target following Callum Wilson’s injury, but talk of a move died down after Chris Wood arrived at the club.
However, Ekitike returned to the rumour mill on transfer deadline day, and came incredibly close to becoming a Newcastle United player.
The Magpies reportedly agreed a deal to sign the youngster on the final day of the window, with the Express stating that the fee was an initial £25million.
But a deadline day deal collapsed, with Ekitike opting to stay in France with Reims. According to the Guardian, Newcastle had organised a plane to transport him to the UK, but he decided not to board it.
It left Eddie Howe’s side short of an attacker, with a subsequent move for Jesse Lingard failing as well.
Ekitike is only 19-years-old, and clearly has a lot of potential. You don’t find many players dubbed ‘the next Kylian Mbappe’. He was perhaps wise to see the season out in France, and Newcastle will no doubt be keeping an eye on his progress.
But if they do decide to make a fresh move in the summer, they could face competition from one of Europe’s elite sides.
Dortmund consider Hugo Ekitike as possible Erling Haaland replacement
According to Bild, Borussia Dortmund view Ekitike as a possible replacement for Erling Haaland. That’s right, they think the lad who nearly signed for Newcastle could take the place of one of football’s best strikers right now.
Haaland seems set to leave Dortmund this summer, with a release clause of £64million set to be activated.
Plenty of top clubs will be scrambling for his signature, while the Bundesliga giants will be focussed on signing someone who can fill the gaping hole he leaves. The fact they think Ekitike can do that is a testament to his ability.
It may also suggest that Newcastle have missed their chance to sign him. Dortmund have an incredible record when it comes to nurturing young talent, and they could perhaps take Ekitike to the next level.
In contrast, the Magpies have spent recent years simply scrapping for survival. Yes, the takeover has changed the landscape of the club, but some players will still see a move to St James’ Park as a risk – especially when bigger clubs are also keen.
Premier League survival and stability might change Ekitike’s mind about a move to Newcastle, but it’s hard to see why he wouldn’t prefer a move to a Champions League side with a rich history of youth development.
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