Moyes refusing to give up as West Ham ‘in talks’ for £25m Newcastle, PSG target
West Ham United are reportedly in talks over the possible signing of Hugo Ekitike despite Reims’ lofty demands for the striker.
David Moyes is known to be in the market for a new hitman. A plethora of names have been mentioned as possibilities but time is running out. The transfer window will soon be shut and the Hammers will then have to go with what they have for a top-four challenge.
Ekitike has been turning heads with his displays for the Ligue 1 outfit. The 19-year-old has bagged eight goals from 11 starts and 18 top-flight appearances across the Channel.
Many clubs have been linked to a player likened to Kylian Mbappe. Newcastle and Paris Saint-Germain have been mentioned as possible suitors.
But Chelsea, Tottenham and Leicester City are also thought to be keen. Unsurprisingly, Reims do not want to lose their prized asset.
But money talks in football and they will be able to demand a decent fee for the France Under-20 ace despite his tender years.
It was claimed earlier this month that Newcastle were prepared to pay £30m for the ‘wonderkid’. However, that particular trail went cold and it was thought the player might remain at Stade Auguste-Delaune.
Reims were in danger of pricing him out of the market. But Sky Sports, via West Ham Zone, are reporting that the Hammers have opened dialogue with Les rouges et blancs.
The report claims they will demand ‘in excess of €30m (£25m)’ for any club to get a deal over the line. It was suggested on Wednesday that the East End outfit had lodged a €25m bid.
And that was after their initial offering of €15m had been immediately rejected.
Ekitike a player to light up Premier League
The latest update suggests Moyes side will not have to go much higher to appease Reims. And it is easy to see why the capital club might push the boat out to try and land their target.
Ekitike is a pacy forward with an eye for goal and he would provide Moyes with options. Able to play as a central striker or out wide, he is a versatile star who would support Michail Antonio.
It remains to be seen if the Magpies go back in for the former Vejle Boldklub loan man. They have the financial muscle to match whatever West Ham offer.
But they do not have European football and are fighting it out at the wrong end of the table.
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