Newcastle United's January business played a huge part in their bid for Premier League survival last year and this summer's early recruitment has been a breath of fresh air. In years gone bye the Magpies have huffed and puffed their way over the line on Deadline Day with supporters used to mediocre transfer windows.
The arrival of Matt Targett, Nick Pope and soon to be Sven Botman on permanent deals is a big statement from Newcastle at such an early stage. However, the Magpies were dealt a blow earlier this week when reports suggested that a deal for Hugo Ekitike was now off the table as a result of ludicrous demands from the player's representatives.
Ekitike is well sought after this summer after a breakthrough season in Ligue 1 but it's claimed the youngster is being ill-advised after originally seeking assurances over game time. The youngster's original decision to turn down a move to Newcastle was in order to continue his development with Lille but any further deliberation could put the transfer on hold.
