In a recent report, L’Equipe claimed that Newcastle United remain the favourites to sign Stade Reims striker Hugo Ekitike. It has been mentioned that the Magpies will have to compete with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain in pursuit of the French frontman in this off-season.
Ekitike’s Impressive Record In French Football Last Season
Ekitike experienced a fruitful season in France as he managed to prove himself by producing a handful of promising displays while spearheading Reims’ attack. The talented youngster banged in 11 goals and grabbed four assists in 26 matches for the French club in the previous campaign across various competitions.
The 20-year-old has caught the eye by averaging 1.3 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per game in Ligue 1 football. However, he was a bit untidy with his ball distribution after making 71.1% of his attempted passes in the French top tier (stats via whoscored).
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What Will Ekitike Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Side?
Ekitike has begun to show that he can be a decent finisher in the final third and can make a few clever runs with the ball in the attacking third of the pitch.
The French youngster can even set up some clear-cut chances for others around him but needs to work on improving his passing accuracy in and around the opposition penalty area. He has mainly played as a centre-forward but can also operate as a left-sided wide player if required.
At 20, Ekitike is still quite inexperienced and would need time to adjust to life in the Premier League if Newcastle United manage to get him on board ahead of the new campaign.
The French wonderkid will add more goals and depth to Eddie Howe‘s frontline at St. James’ Park. He could grow into a future star at the Tyneside club if Howe is willing to be patient with his progress in the coming seasons. Hence, the Magpies would do well to win the chase for Ekitike during this summer transfer window as he will be a great acquisition for them in the long run.
