Reims boss Oscar Garcia’s latest comments raise the question as to whether Newcastle United will break their transfer policy. Since taking over the reins nine months ago, Toon chiefs have insisted on signing the right characters to bolster Eddie Howe’s squad.
Established Premier League players were targeted in January as the Magpies aimed to steer clear of relegation. Those ready to dig in and give their all to the black-and-white cause were prioritised over superstar signings. Dan Burn, the boyhood Toon fan who was released by the club as a schoolboy, embodies that criteria.
Even Bruno Guimaraes, the sole winter arrival who had no previous top-flight experience, quickly proved he has the character for the fight. After six months on Tyneside, it is clear the Brazilian is already loving life as a St James’ Park cult hero.
READ MORE: Bayer Leverkusen will sell Moussa Diaby but Newcastle will have to meet huge transfer demand
Newcastle insist on buying players who want to represent the club. Big-time Charlies and prima donnas who are here for their bank balance will be avoided like the plague, learning from the few mistakes Manchester City made following their 2008 takeover.
That is why bosses relentlessly pursued Sven Botman after missing out on their top target last winter. In February, Amanda Staveley told The Athletic the defender “desperately wanted to come ' - a sentiment he has since echoed to Dutch media.
Ekitike has toyed with Newcastle since interest was first shown in January. Rejecting a last-minute, deadline-day move was understandable as the youngster was enjoying a fine debut season in professional football.
However, the 20-year-old has conveyed mixed signals since the Magpies renewed their interest this summer. ChronicleLive understands a deal was agreed between Newcastle and Reims and the player was given reassurances on his first-team opportunities.
Despite this, Ekitike has continued to mull over a move - provoking the question of whether he wants to be here. Speculation in France suggests his agent is keeping United on the back-burner while he flirts with a move to PSG.
The Reims’ coach delivered an ominous warning to Newcastle should they carry on their pursuit of the youngster. He said: “He told me he wanted to stay, but if there’s Real Madrid and Barcelona who come knocking... I find Hugo calm. I spoke with him. He will have no problem staying at the club, and neither will I.”
One of the Magpies’ non-negotiables in the transfer market is being put to the test. Positive characters who want to play for Newcastle is what the owners, manager and supporters desire. After these recent comments, can everybody be certain Ekitike fits the bill?
We want to hear your thoughts, so LOG IN and leave your comment below
READ NEXT
Sven Botman breaks silence in Dutch interview as he reveals Newcastle felt 'better' than AC Milan
Newcastle make Ashley transfer policy arrival change as Sven Botman is welcomed by team-mates
Sven Botman will end some Newcastle careers as ruthless Eddie Howe gets added transfer bonus
Newcastle have found a 'beast' in Sven Botman who wanted move even sooner
Newcastle's transfer plan after Sven Botman announcement as Hugo Ekitike takes huge gamble
