Newcastle United are set to sign a new striker this summer and one player they have been heavily linked with is Stade Reims forward Hugo Ekitike.
Since being promoted to the club’s senior first-team last year, 19-year-old Ekitike has grown to become of France’s hottest prospects.
Although the teenager’s contract is not set to expire until 2024 after president Jean-Pierre Caillot recently confirmed that the club will not stand in his way if he wishes to depart, this summer certainly looks to be a pivotal period in the youngster’s career.
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Speaking recently about the talented Ekitike and what the future could have in store for him, Caillot said: “In Hugo’s case, he would waste time staying with us.
“We refused an offer of €35million (£29m) this winter, which is a lot of money for a club like ours.
“That money will be used to grow and improve the club. Hugo will be allowed to go, and he’s probably going to leave.
“There wasn’t a big club that didn’t inquire for him.”