Newcastle United's pursuit of Eddie Nketiah is reportedly now over as Magpies are closing in on another target.
As per the Telegraph, Newcastle are hoping to finalise a deal for Reims striker Hugo Ekitike on transfer deadline day, despite being knocked back earlier in the window.
The Magpies were quoted a fee of £33m when they first approached Reims earlier this month but have remained in touch and now believe they will reach an agreement for the highly-rated 19-year-old.
Ekitike, who has been likened to PSG star Kylian Mbappe by many, was said to be on Chelsea's radar, with reports suggesting that the Blues had made contact with Reims over a potential move.
That deal never materialised, however, and the young Frenchman now looks set to sign for Eddie Howe's Newcastle.
And with Arsenal reluctant to let go of Eddie Nketiah - especially as they're willing to part ways with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - the Magpies have seemingly ended their interest in the young Englishman.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has publicly spoken about his desire to keep hold of Nketiah beyond the expiration of his contract in June.
Speaking in December, the Gunners manager said this on the striker's future at the Emirates: "I tell you every day that we want to keep Eddie. We see how he trains, that's what he does every day, he works so hard and puts the ball in the net every session.
"I am really delighted with him. Every time we have needed him, he has always responded."
With top four still in reach, the Gunners faithful will be hoping that Arteta's Nketiah gamble will pay off, but it's certainly a big risk.
