Newcastle United face new twist in Hugo Ekitike pursuit as co-owner issues transfer message

Newcastle United remain hopeful of Ekitike deal despite concerning reports from France

Newcastle United are reportedly ‘close’ to agreeing personal terms with Reims striker Hugo Ekitike.

Sky Sports claim that United are edging closer to completing a deal for the 19-year-old and a medical could take place as early as next week.

This is despite conflicting reports from France suggesting that the forward is stalling a potential move to England due to interest from elsewhere.

RMC Sport have stated that Paris Saint-Germain are now interested in making a move for Ekitike despite Newcastle having reached an agreement with Reims. German club Borussia Dortmund have also been credited with an interest.

Ekitike has been a top transfer target for Newcastle this summer but he is currently on holiday following Toulon Tournament success with France Under-20s.

Mehrdad Ghodoussi’s four word Newcastle United transfer message

Just over a week into the summer transfer window and Newcastle have already completed a £15million permanent signing of Matt Targett from Aston Villa.

They have also bolstered their academy side with the addition of Alex Murphy from Galway United and Kilmarnock’s Charlie McArthur set to follow.

But a lack of progress regarding further first team signings has started to frustrate some sections of the Newcastle fan base.

And Newcastle co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi was quick to reassure fans with a calm message on Twitter simply stating: “Patience is a virtue.”

Indeed with two-and-a-half months left of the summer transfer window, Newcastle still have plenty of time to complete more signings.