Report: Newcastle remain keen on Ekitike; but face Dortmund battle

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Newcastle United remain interested in signing Hugo Ekitike, but could face a battle with a Borussia Dortmund side potentially looking to replace Erling Haaland this summer, according to a report from Bild.

Ekitike has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent times. In fact, the Magpies made a last-ditch £25 million bid to bring him to St James’ Park as the January transfer window deadline loomed.

The 19-year-old has scored nine goals in Ligue 1 for Reims. And he has been labelled ‘special‘ by boss Oscar Garcia.

Unsurprisingly, Newcastle remain in the running to sign Ekitike. However, it would appear that they now face some hefty competition.

Bild reports that Dortmund also want Ekitike. In fact, the Bundesliga side view the teenager as a potential replacement for Haaland.

The Norwegian could well be on the move this summer. He has a £67 million release clause in play at the end of the season. So it is hard to imagine a raft of sides not making their move for the 21-year-old.

It would be asking a lot of Ekitike to expect him to fill the void Haaland may leave. But he finds himself predominantly playing at a higher level than Haaland was before his switch to the Westfalenstadion.

Newcastle would make huge statement by signing Hugo Ekitike ahead of Borussia Dortmund

Newcastle will, of course, find themselves in a strong position should they remain in the top-flight this year. They showed plenty of ambition during the window.

But they also missed out on some marquee targets, including Ekitike. Surely, many of those names will be much more tempted to make the move to Tyneside should the Magpies manage to stay up.

There is certainly an opportunity for a new striker to make themselves a key player in Howe’s side. Chris Wood was more of a pragmatic signing for this season. Meanwhile, Callum Wilson has, unfortunately, continued to struggle with injury.

It would definitely be a huge statement if Newcastle could now beat Dortmund to Ekitike’s signature.