Newcastle ‘will be active’ for former forward target as Magpies look to get last laugh over PSG
Newcastle United ‘will be active’ for former target Hugo Ekitike in the summer, as Paris Saint-Germain may be forced to sell the striker.
Ekitike was one of a number of targets for the Magpies in the summer. In just the second transfer window after their takeover by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, they were linked with a lot of players.
That was little surprise, given the new owners were likely looking to improve their new side. Newcastle reportedly had a deal in place with Reims, and had agreed terms with Ekitike.
However, his agent was apparently asking for additional fees, which led to the Premier League side walking away from the table.
The Frenchman then joined PSG on loan for the season before a permanent deal this summer. However, after having just joined the club, he might soon be on the move again.
French outlet L’Equipe reports due to PSG trying to get some salaries off the books, he could be moved on. That report suggests a ‘loan with option to buy would be best for’ for the French club.
What’s more, Newcastle might have the last laugh over them. While they left negotiations for Ekitike and PSG snapped him up, they could be the beneficiaries of his next move.
Indeed, L’Equipe states the Magpies ‘will be active’ for the Frenchman again. There might not be any such financial complications this time around.
If PSG are going to be forced to move him on to get salaries off the books, there might not be room for any intricacies like large agent fees. They would surely ensure he was simply moved on as easily as possible.
That could mean he’s available at a lower price than what Newcastle had agreed – reportedly £30million – previously.
That would be a success after missing out last time. It would also add to the attacking talent that is on offer at St James’ Park currently.
While Ekitike has scored just three goals this season, he bagged 11 last campaign. Newcastle’s top scorer this term is Miguel Almiron, with 11.
As such, having more players who can find the net should aid their attacking prowess. Given they’ve been a side on the rise for the past couple of seasons, adding more firepower up top could sustain that rise next term.
