Newcastle United still have a bit of work to do before they sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The 19-year-old has been a target for the Tyneside club since January, and Sheth says they are pushing to finally get this one over the line.
GiveMeSport Transfer Update
What is the latest news involving Ekitike?
As per Sky Sports, Newcastle were given permission to talk to Ekitike earlier this month ahead of a potential transfer to St James' Park this summer.
In the winter transfer window, it was reported that the Magpies and Reims had actually agreed a £33m deal over a January move, but the French youngster opted to stay in France in the end.
It meant Ekitike was able to finish the Ligue 1 season with his side, with the forward going on to rack up 23 appearances.
Across those games, he managed to score 10 goals, helping Reims to a 12th-placed finish in the French top flight.
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What has Sheth said about Ekitike to Newcastle?
Sheth has told GIVEMESPORT that Newcastle and PIF are trying to finalise a £30m deal for Ekitike as manager Eddie Howe looks to bolster his forward options.
Speaking to GMS, the Sky Sports reporter said: "Hugo Ekitike, the Reims striker, very, very highly rated. Newcastle, they do want him.
"The fee would work out to be a package worth around £30m and personal terms, they're still to be finalised as well. So still a bit of work to do on that one, but Newcastle do want him and they're pushing to get that one over the line."
Which other strikers have Newcastle been linked with?
As well as Ekitike, Newcastle have shown interest in signing Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Brentford's Ivan Toney. However, they now look like targets the Magpies will not pursue.
According to The Telegraph, the Toffees want £60m for their forward, while the Bees want £50m plus for theirs, fees Newcastle do not want to pay.
It could see Howe turn elsewhere, but it also would not be a shock if Ekitike was the only No.9 to arrive at St James' Park this summer.
On top of Ekitike, should he join, Howe will also have Callum Wilson and Chris Wood to call upon for the 2022/23 season, though the former's injury record is a worry.
It should be enough to get Newcastle to the January transfer window, where they can then reassess things.