According to Talk Sports journalist Alex Crook, Newcastle United could be on the verge of walking away from a possible deal for French striker Hugo Ekitike as the player’s agent is demanding unrealistic terms in the deal.
After an incredibly successful January transfer window which saw the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier, and Dan Burn come in a transform the side from relegation fodder to top-ten hopefuls, Newcastle is continuing to improve the side, however, they have hit a bump in negotiations for top target Ekitike.
Talk Sport’s Crook revealed this week that the deal could be coming to an end after the player’s agent has asked for unrealistic demands in the contract talks and Newcastle do not want to be pushed around in the transfer market.
He said, ” I think this is a sign Newcastle are not going to be pushed around in the transfer market. They’re very close to walking away from the deal to sign the young French striker Hugo Ekitike because of what they see as unrealistic demands from his agent… we know they’re a wealthy club, but they’re also a very well-run club.” (12:17)
TIF Thoughts on Ekitike to Newcastle…
The Magpies have been repeatedly linked to the Reims striker as they look to bolster their attacking options of Callum Wilson, Chris Wood and Allan Saint-Maximin, however, despite their new ownership they should not pay over the odds for unproven players like Ekitike.
Last season the 20-year-old bagged 11 goals and four assists in 26 appearances in all competitions and showed his defensive capabilities as well by ranking in the 99th percentile for interceptions, 86th for tackles, and 81st for clearances compared to other forwards in Europe’s top five leagues. (Fbref)
Reims is not accepting anything under £30 million for the striker, which is a reasonable price for a player with Ekitike’s potential, but if the agent keeps moving the goalposts in terms of wages and other fees, it might be worthwhile for the team to look elsewhere. Which in turn could even force Ekitike’s agent into accepting their offer.
Should Newcastle sign Ekitike?Yes
No
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