Fabrizio Romano has revealed a deal to bring Hugo Ekitike to Newcastle United is “back on track”.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
Like Sven Botman – a player Newcastle are finally thought to be closing in on too – Ekitike’s name has long been linked with a move to St James’ Park.
The Reims forward snubbed a move to the club in January but has remained on Newcastle’s radar, as they bid to bring in extra cover and competition for Callum Wilson in attacking areas.
An injury picked up while away on international duty was said to have complicated matters, although Romano has revealed positive talks have been held with the French club.
What did Romano say about Ekitike and Newcastle?
Taking to Twitter, noted transfer insider Romano wrote: “New, positive contact between Hugo Ekitike’s agent and Newcastle. Deal back on track after agreement in place with Reims, but waiting on agent side.
Just how good is Ekitike?
At only 19, the forward ranks among the leading 47% of strikers playing across Europe’s big five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals (0.64), assists (0.21) and shot-creating actions (2.69) per game (via FBREF).
No one in Newcastle’s squad got close to matching those averages last season. Able to operate on the left-hand side of the attack too, there’s also scope to deploy him alongside Wilson or Chris Wood, offering Howe more alternatives heading into next season.
With so much of his career ahead of him, watching the teenager develop during an already hugely exciting period for the club would be fascinating.
What has been said about Ekitike’s playing style?
An article written on Ligue 1’s official website in March described the player as having ” the height to strike fear into many an opposition centre-back, but his build-up play also deserves recognition.
“Ekitike has the technique and ball control often associated with far smaller players – a result of his late growth-spurt perhaps – with only Kylian Mbappé and Wissam Ben Yedder outstripping him for goal-involvements per 90 minutes this season.”
