Newcastle United have agreed a five-year deal with striker Hugo Ekitike ahead of a potential move from Reims this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 19-year-old was close to joining Eddie Howe's side back in the January transfer window, before he decided to remain in Ligue 1 for the remainder of the season.
The Magpies have retained their interest in bringing Ekitike to St James' Park in the upcoming transfer window however, with talks between the two clubs taking place over the last few weeks.
Now according to transfer expert Romano, Newcastle have agreed terms with Ekitike, as a move edges closer to being finalised.
Tweeting from his official Twitter account on Wednesday, Romano said: "Newcastle are now getting closer to sign Hugo Ekitike from Reims after Deadline Day twist in January. Talks progressing between clubs, as per Santi Aouna.
"Been told final fee could be close to €30m plus €5m add ons. Newcastle have been leading the race for weeks.
"Hugo Ekitike has agreed a five year deal with Newcastle. Now it's about final details to be discussed with Reims before deal completed. Talented French striker was in BVB list but Newcastle have been pushing for months after January negotiations."
As Romano suggested, Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with an interest in the France Under-20's international, who scored 10 goals and registered three assists in 24 Ligue 1 appearances during the 2021-22 campaign, of which only 15 were starts.
Matthew Tranter
