Newcastle United are looking to continue strengthening this summer, and having already added Matt Targett this summer, they are looking to bolster their frontline.
And in their prolonged pursuit of Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, it seems as though a breakthrough is imminent, with ‘new, positive contact’ having been made between the Magpies and the entourage of the French forward.
The deal looked to be dead in the water when Ekitike picked up a hamstring injury while on international duty, but the injury ‘wasn’t as bad as first thought’, meaning that a permanent transfer for the exciting talent is looking increasingly likely.
New, positive contact between Hugo Ekitike’s agent and Newcastle. Deal back on track after agreement in place with Reims, but waiting on agent side. ⚪️⚫️ #NUFC
The injury wasn’t as bad as first though. Newcastle are on it with player’s camp – this week expected to be important.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2022
Botman deal on the cards too
A deal for Lille defender Sven Botman is also expected to advance this week, with the Dutchman another that the Magpies have held a long-term interest in and, like Ekitike, failed with a bid for in January.
Sven Botman of Lille OSC is expected to join Newcastle this summer Gerrit van Keulen (Photo by ANP via Getty Images).
As per the Daily Mail, Eddie Howe’s side are offering a fee of around £32m for the centre-back, with Newcastle looking to further strengthen their defence following the arrival of Dan Burn in January.
And, while Lille are holding out for a fee closer to £34m, there is belief that a deal can be struck, finally taking Botman to St James’ Park.
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