Why did Hugo Ekitike reject Newcastle transfer?
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 16 Jul 2022 19:22 BST
- 3 min read
Reims striker Hugo Ekitike turned down the opportunity to join Premier League giants Newcastle in the January transfer window and has now joined Paris Saint-Germain on a one-year loan deal, with an option to buy.
The St James’ Park side chased the 19-year-old forward after he had made an impressive start to the Ligue 1 season, only to be knocked back by a player who has been tagged as the ‘next Kylian Mbappe’.
Ekitike’s move to stay put seemed like a bold one at the time and in some regards didn't pay off as he spent much of the second half of the campaign laid up because of a hamstring problem. However, he's now been confirmed as a PSG player for next season.
Back in May, the teenager outlined why he took the decision to reject Newcastle.
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"I respect this great club a lot,” he told L’Equipe when he was asked why he turned Newcastle down. "But it happened quickly and it was not the time. It was better for me to stay here, to complete the full season and confirm myself."
Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United had all been linked with a move for the attacker this summer, but PSG won the race for his signature.
Back in May, he added: "I consider myself ready for anything, whether that’s staying here or taking on a challenge that everyone agrees on.
"I think clubs will show an interest in me. For my part, I’ll be quiet because I’m surrounded by the right people to manage this situation.”
What type of player is Hugo Ekitike?
And just what sort of player have PSG signed?
"A fairly complete player and my make up helps me,” he said. "When you see me, you say to yourself: ‘He’s not very strong.’ And yet I wouldn’t change my body for anything in the world.
"It allows me to run fast, to compete in duels. I have stamina, I’m technical, and I have a very good understanding of the game.
"I have room for improvement in all areas but I want to get closer to perfection, to touch perfection, why not? I’m not afraid of anything.”
With so many big clubs chasing Ekitike this summer, Reims were hopeful of attracting offers of greater than the €35m they turned down for the striker from Newcastle in January. However, he's now joined PSG on loan, with the Parisians holding an option to buy.
