Newcastle's Deadline Day started off in the best possible fashion with a bid accepted for rising star Hugo Ekitike, but that bubble soon burst with the French forward turning down a move to St. James' Park. At the time, the Magpies were battling for their lives at the foot of the Premier League.
The Reims youngster burst onto the scene with an impressive eight goals in just 20 appearances. His rejection was a blow for Eddie Howe's side, but a huge bonus for the Ligue 1 outfit.
It's fair to say the 19-year-old was unheard of in England prior to his failed Newcastle move. Needless to say, that doesn't mean he wasn't on a number of clubs' radar.
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So just who is Ekitike? We spoke with Timothe Crepin, journalist at 90 Football, for an insight into Ekitike's rise to prominence, a player of Karim Benzema's mould and how he's fared since turning down Newcastle United.
What have you made of Hugo Ekitike so far this season, is it fair to say he's been a surprise package?
Timothe Crepin: "To be honest, Ekitike is one of the 3 or 5 biggest surprises of the season in Ligue 1. No one would have imagined that a 19-year-old player would score so many goals with Reims.
"And for those who follow Reims and the supporters, it was unimaginable. Hugo was the 3rd or 4th striker in the hierarchy at the start of the season ! He took his chance and was remarkable."
What kind of player is he and what are his best attributes?
TC: "In Benzema's style, he's not a striker who's just there to score. He participates in the game, in the actions. Whether it's back to the game, as a fulcrum.
"But he was obviously immensely effective in front of goal. An impressive serial killer side for a youngster who had only played twice in Ligue 1.
"He must be careful not to cut corners. He's still young. He is someone who has great self-confidence. But you still have to be careful with that. Too bad, his injury cut him off in this tremendous momentum."
Were you surprised to see Ekitike linked with Newcastle in January?
TC: "I was not surprised knowing the financial power of Newcastle. A young striker who scores so much for his first season ! And we know the connexion between Magpies and French players.
"In my opinion, he did well not to go to Newcastle. At his age, he still needs an environment of trust. He hasn't even played 25 games in Ligue 1 yet!"
Were Reims fans pleased to see him stay?
TC: "Yes, of course! This season, if Ekitike was not there, Reims would be last in the championship. Since the departure of Boulaye Dia last summer, the attacking position has been difficult in Reims.
"El Bilal Touré failed to convince and the club had not really recruited. So it was a great chance to see Hugo perform like that!"
What has he been like since turning down Newcastle?
TC: "As I said: unfortunately he got injured and hasn't played since February 20. He should be back very soon. Reims really needs it!"
