Newcastle 'front of the queue' for Hugo Ekitike after club chief's 'brilliant' update - pundit
Newcastle United will win the race for Reims striker Hugo Ekitike this summer.
That's according to former Leeds United stopper Paddy Kenny, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Magpies' transfer plans.
The Magpies tried to sign the 19-year-old during the winter window but, as revealed by this site on 31 January, had a £20m-plus bid knocked back after extensive talks.
A Newcastle source has since told Football Insider (5 April), the club have continued to keep tabs on the France Under-21 international and Eddie Howe has made him a top target.
Kenny insists the Magpies have the upper hand on other interested clubs.
"Newcastle are at the front of the queue," Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
"That sounds like he's leaving so that's brilliant to hear for anyone who wants him.
"The project is so interesting for these players, look how well they are doing already.
"Think about what is going to happen. It is going to unbelievable project to be involved in.
"So, for me, they have the upper hand over other clubs who might want it.
"You have to look at the bigger picture with Newcastle, look at where they are trying to get to.
"To me, there is no doubt that they will get there and that's such an exciting thing for a player."
Ekitike is valued at the £25m mark by Reims.
West Ham also held talks for the 19-year-old back in January but he ended up remaining with the French club.