French Ligue 1 side Reims have confirmed that they have rejected Newcastle United’s offer to land star striker Hugo Ekitike, but talks are still ongoing for a possible agreement.
We exclusively revealed Newcastle’s bid for Ekitike earlier this month, and despite lengthy talks, the deal could not be finalised.
The Magpies continued talks at the behest of manager Eddie Howe and sources have reported that negotiations over a deal are continuing as the valuations are not massively different between the two parties.
Newcastle made an offer of €35m ($39m) but the overall deal contained clauses and bonuses – such as winning the Champions League – that Reims deemed unreasonable.
Reims forward Hugo Ekitike has attracted clubs across Europe and Newcastle have been keen to sign the striker this transfer window. | PHOTO: Getty Images |
Newcastle are still open to a deal for the 19-year-old, who was the top-scoring teenager in Europe’s top leagues in the opening half of the season, but as it stands Ekitike won’t be moving to the Premier League this month.
Reims president Jean-Pierre Caillot explained to French-based Le Quotidien du Sport the current situation with Ekitike, and that as things stand they can’t accept Newcastle’s offer.
Hugo Ekitike in past action for Reims. | PHOTO: Getty Images |
Caillot explained: “It is true that many clubs are now realising the qualities of the player, but not us, he has trained so well for us and it is not a surprise.
“Newcastle positioned themselves for a deal and we talked, but their proposal did not suit us as we don’t necessarily want to sell him and that is why we set to the asking price (€40m) quite high.
“They did make us an offer worth €35m (£29m) in total, but it was with many bonuses and some of which were almost impossible to achieve – such as winning the Champions League. We want €30m fixed plus €10 million in reasonable bonuses.”
Newcastle remains keen on Ekitike, who would like to make the move to St James’ Park, and they clearly know the price tag to secure his services.
Newcastle have been busy this transfer window with their first signing being right-back Kierran Trippier who joined from Atletico Madrid.
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