Barring a major shock, Newcastle United will now not be signing Hugo Ekitike on transfer deadline day.
The club were heavily linked with a last-gasp swoop for the French youngster this morning.
There were reports that Newcastle had agreed on a transfer fee with Reims.
But in the last couple of hours, news has filtered through that Ekitike has turned down a move to St. James’ Park, and he will now see out the season with the French club.
There have now been suggestions that Newcastle are back in for Jesse Lingard as an alternative to Ekitike. But the Magpies face competition from West Ham United.
Ekitike is a hugely promising youngster over in France.
He would have been a hugely exciting addition. But it wasn’t to be in this window.
Interestingly, Fabrizio Romano has reported that there was actually another reason Newcastle have been unable to sign Ekitike this time around.
Apparently, Newcastle weren’t happy with the sell-on clause Reims were apparently proposing.
The Ligue 1 outfit apparently wanted 30% of any future fee for the 19-year-old.
Newcastle should reignite Hugo Ekitike interest in the summer
It wasn’t to be this time for Newcastle, but the club should look to reignite their interest in Ekitike in the summer.
If the Magpies survive, and Ekitike continues to impress, it would make sense to hold talks with Reims again.
30% is quite a high sell-on clause. It is little wonder Newcastle didn’t not feel comfortable agreeing to it.
But it’s understandable Reims were looking to insert such a clause. Ekitike has huge potential and could well be worth a fortune in the coming years. They would of course want to ensure they get a slice of any future sale.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
