According to Michael Bridge, Newcastle United are yet to sign 19-year-old Reims striker Huge Ekitike due to the player’s apprehension about joining a new league at such a young age but does feel like they will eventually sign him.
Newcastle is set to continue their impressive transfer business, which saw them sign huge players like Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier in January, with rumours of them trying to move for Ekitike who has impressed during his season with Reims last year.
However, they have failed to sign the player so far in this window and Sky Sport’s Bridge has revealed that it is down to the player’s uncertainty about joining the Premier League at this point in his career.
He said on the Transfer Show, “I think they’re trying to secure the signing of that Ekitike, the French striker. They wanted him in January, but you know he’s quite a young lad and he’s a bit unsure about coming to another country, but I think they’ll eventually get him”. (3:08)
TIF Thoughts on Bridge’s comments…
Ekitike looks like he is going to be a great player in the future, but at the age of 19, it is understandable that the striker is unsure whether to join the Premier League, rather than continue to develop for another season or two in Ligue 1.
Last season he racked up 10 goals and three assists in Ligue 1 while averaging 1.3 shots, one dribble, and 1.1 aerial duels won while ranking in the 93rd percentile for non-penalty goals, 97th for dribbles completed and showing his defensive capabilities by ranking in the 99th percentile for interceptions and the 86th for tackles. (Fbref)
The future looks bright for the ‘special’ Frenchman so there is no rush for him to move away from Reims, but with Newcastle knocking on the door with their limitless resources, surely it is just a matter of time before they sign their man.
Will Ekitike join Newcastle?Yes
No
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