Newcastle United aren’t far away from just a medical standing in the way of Hugo Ekitike becoming a Toon player.
The 19-year-old is edging closer to joining the Magpies, almost five months after he turned down a move to St James’ Park.
He almost joined Newcastle on deadline day in January, but decided against it. That hasn’t put Eddie Howe and co off, and the forward could be the second senior player to join the club this summer.
However, getting the deal over the line is proving to be difficult. Progress is slow, with Ekitike on the brink of becoming a Magpie for about a fortnight now.
A £26million fee has reportedly been agreed, which would make him the new owners’ second most expensive signing.
It had been hoped that he would sign this week, but that obviously hasn’t happened.
Terms almost agreed as Newcastle eye Hugo Ekitike medical
Sky Sports have provided an update on the situation. They believe that personal terms are close to being agreed, with some work still to be done before a deal can be finalised.
They add that Ekitike will be on Tyneside next week for a medical if an agreement can be reached. If he passes that then he can finally become a Newcastle player.
Agent fees appear to have been delayed the deal, while there has also been speculation over interest from elsewhere. PSG are reportedly interested in the teenager.
But the Chronicle claim that Ekitike is open to moving to St James’ Park. It’ll be a great deal if Newcastle can get it done, as Ekitike has been a man in demand in recent months.
He had an excellent season in Ligue 1 last time out, and can hopefully take his game to the next level in a black and white shirt.
He’s one for the present and the future, and will hopefully grow as a player in tandem with Newcastle growing as a club.
Given how long it’s taken this deal to reach a conclusion, he better prove to be worth the wait – if we can finalise personal terms.
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