Hugo Ekitike ‘on the radar of a lot of clubs’ after Sky update on Newcastle United talks – Robinson
Newcastle United can sign “one of the hottest prospects in Europe” in Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, according to Paul Robinson.
The former Spurs and England number one, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 19-year-old has “been on the radar of a lot of clubs for a long time.”
According to Sky Sports (7 June), the Magpies have held positive talks with the player’s representatives regarding a move to St. James’ Park.
A fee of £25.6million is said to be enough to tempt Reims into parting with their prize asset, who has two years remaining on his contract.
Eddie Howe’s side came close to signing Ekitike in the January window.
When asked by Football Insider for his thoughts on the potential signing of the teenager, Robinson said: “He is one of the hottest prospects in Europe at the moment.
“A lot of people are looking at him and a lot of people are talking about him. He has been on the radar of a lot of clubs for a long time.
“It would be a shrewd bit of business if Newcastle got him now.
“I don’t think he’d make an immediate impact on the starting XI but he would certainly be a valuable first-team player. I imagine he would be given time to settle.
“The money is by no means a gamble because he is a top young player. He will prove his worth in years to come.”
In other news, Newcastle United have been told to re-sign Georginio Wijnaldum as transfer decision close.