Newcastle United agree €46 million transfer fee for striker

A new striker was always expected to be near the top of Newcastle United’s summer transfer wish list, after neither Callum Wilson nor Chris Wood managed to hit double figures for the 2021/22 season. Thus, it was clear that Eddie Howe needed another option up front, who could find the back of the net on a consistent basis, for the Magpies to be competing with the truly elite teams in the Premier League.

As a result, a number of top quality options like Darwin Nunez of Benfica, Victor Osimhen of Napoli and Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Everton were linked with a move to St James’ Park. But now, it looks like Newcastle United could be closing in on their man.

Hugo Ekitike enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1 with Stade Reims and Newcastle United have been linked with him for months, and it is believed that they tried to sign him in January as well. It could finally be happening this summer though.

As reported by Foot Mercato, Newcastle United and Stade Reims have reached an agreement for Ekitike around an initial transfer fee of €36 million in addition to €10 million in easily attainable bonuses. There are a few small details yet to be settled but a transfer is on track.

Newcastle United agree €46 million transfer fee for highly-rated striker

Newcastle United were always expected to go after a striker this summer but the fact that they appear to be closing in on a transfer deal so early just goes on to show their ambition as well as the fact that they knew exactly who they wanted.

According to stats from Transfermarkt, Ekitike scored 11 goals and provided 4 assists in 26 appearances for Stade Reims last season.

Those are exceptional numbers for someone who is still just 19 years of age and is expected to get much better as he gains more experience.