Newcastle United’s pursuit of Stade Reims’ Hugo Ekitike has taken another twist. We’ve reported previously that the deal for the 19-year-old has been complicated. Well, it appears Ekitike could now join on loan, per journalist Graeme Bailey on the ‘Talking Transfers Podcast‘.
“This deal is done, it has been agreed, but it’s a convoluted deal. I’ve done a piece today and within that we say that it will be Financial Fair Play friendly”, he stated.
“Which is a phrase we’ll have to get used to hearing because the Premier League are keeping an extra eye on Newcastle. Rightly or wrongly, so Newcastle are aware of that.
“This deal might even be an initial loan, but it would be a mandatory buy, so he will be a Newcastle player.”
Earlier this week, Newcastle were hoping to seal Ekitike and Sven Botman by the time the week wrapped up. So perhaps once this obstacle is overcome, they’ll get their man, but they are running out of days if they are to keep on schedule.
French Football expert Julien Laurens has described the Frenchman as a striker with ‘amazing talent’ (Sky Sports).
Alternative ways of looking to sign Ekitike shows the club want to make this happen, one way or another
The fact that Ekitike could join on loan suggests that the club are keen on him. They’re willing to find a way to make sure he signs for them. It seems Newcastle have been subjected to a long and drawn-out affair to land the striker. It dates as far back as January.
Negotiations for Ekitike have not gone as quickly as they would’ve liked, but this could be the light at the end of the tunnel.
When it comes to Ekitike’s potential the sky could really be the limit. He’s one of the highest-scoring teenagers in Europe. Furthermore, if he was to join Newcastle he could learn a lot from the strikers around him.
Both Callum Wilson and Chris Wood are experienced players. They could help Ekitike meet his potential and be a consistent goalscorer in the Premier League.
The Magpies will need at least one alternative attacking option this summer. Wilson knows where the net is but struggles at times with staying fit. Chris Wood hasn’t been able to find the net consistently and Dwight Gayle will likely leave this summer.
The negotiations for Ekitike are looking like they’ll reach their conclusion. It seemed he would sign permanently for the Toon. However, Ekitike could join on loan but if it means that we’ll see him in black and white next season, some fans won’t complain.
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