What Eddie Howe previously said about Hugo Ekitike is now very interesting after Newcastle renew interest

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Had Newcastle United had it their way, Hugo Ekitike would already call St James’ Park his home.

Instead, 2024 looks set to see the Magpies try to sign the French forward at the third time of asking.

Ekitike rejected a move to Newcastle on two separate occasions in 2022 in favour of moving to Paris Saint-Germain, which has proven to be a mistake.

The 21-year-old has struggled for minutes at PSG, and is now being linked with a move away from the French capital.

It has been claimed that Newcastle could make a new move for the striker, while it has even been suggested that Toon officials will look to complete a loan deal with an option to buy.

Given the recent injuries to Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, it is clear that Newcastle need a third striker. Whoever they bring in needs to be young enough that they can still develop before eventually taking Wilson’s place at the club.

Ekitike fits the bill, but his rejection of the Toon still leaves a sour taste for some supporters.

What Eddie Howe said about Hugo Ekitike after he snubbed Newcastle for PSG

But there was no bitterness from Eddie Howe shortly after it was confirmed that his side had missed out on Ekitike in 2022.

He spoke to the Chronicle after the move to PSG became official, and was still very complimentary about Ekitike and his potential.

“It’s no secret that we really liked Hugo and we worked hard to try and do that deal,” he said.

“He’s a very talented lad and he decided to go to PSG.

“I have no hard feelings toward him and wish him well in the next phase of his career. I really do wish him luck.

“But it is an example of the types of clubs we’re competing with to try and improve our squad.”

Newcastle still see the potential in Ekitike

Howe said there were no hard feelings last year, and that is clearly still the case with Newcastle considering a fresh move.

Despite everything that happened in 2022, the club still clearly believe he is an immensely talented player who can have a bright future at St James’ Park.

The youngster will be disappointed that it has not worked out at PSG, but that could actually play into Newcastle’s hands and motivate him to become even better.

For now, Ekitike is once again a Newcastle United target. He was a player who Eddie Howe really rated in 2022, and it looks like that is still the case heading into 2024.