The 19-year-old forward rejected a move to Newcastle in January, but the Magpies have been making steady progress towards capturing him this summer.

 

Newcastle have a deal worth €46m in place with Reims but negotiations between the club and his representatives have been complicated.

 

 

The Magpies believe that personal terms are not going to be a problem but Ekitike’s entourage are dragging their feet in the talks.

 

It has been claimed that they are still offering Ekitike to several clubs across Europe despite Newcastle having a deal in place with Reims.

 

 

His representatives are dragging out the negotiations and are trying to get more clubs involved in the race.

 

It has left Newcastle annoyed as they want to complete the deal.

 

 

Newcastle have been left frustrated by agents and clubs this summer and believe goalposts are being continuously shifted in negotiations specifically for them.

 

A deal for Ekitike is still not dead but Newcastle’s patience is being tested by his entourage.