West Ham-linked Hugo Ekitike wants Newcastle switch
Reims forward Hugo Ekitike is keen on joining Newcastle amid January links to West Ham, according to Toby Cudworth.
The 90min journalist claims that the Hammers enquired about a possible loan move, but the Ligue 1 giants want a permanent sale.
Barring these two clubs, Brighton and Brentford are also understood to be interested in securing his services.
Cudworth wrote, via his personal Twitter account, “Race for £30m-rated Hugo Ekitike hotting up – Brighton & Brentford in the frame now alongside Newcastle.
“Player keen on moving to St James’ Park at this stage.
“Understand #WHUFC enquired about a loan deal but Reims only interested in agreeing a permanent transfer.”
Intense chase
The Hammers appear poised to sign a striker this month and it looks like they’ve identified Ekitike as an option.
However, his valuation appears to be a tad high and that could put them off from making a bid.
Also, he appears hell-bent on joining Newcastle and the funds that they have are nowhere comparable to West Ham.
They could also give him a massive pay hike and put him beyond the reach of any suitor.
Also, whether or not a 19-year-old with no Premier League experience would be a success in the English top flight remains to be seen.
They’re better off looking at cheaper and more experienced alternatives who can actually challenge Michail Antonio for a starting berth.
In other West Ham news, the club want to sign a ‘World class’ central midfielder in January and the player is set to leave on one condition
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