Fears a new hamstring injury could scupper Hugo Ekitike’s proposed move to Newcastle United have now been eased, with the 19-year-old fit enough to make the bench for France U20’s on Sunday.
They take on Venezuela in the final of the Toulon Tournament at 5pm – a game the Frenchman would’ve started had he not been forced off just eight minutes into their semi-final win over Mexico on Thursday.
Some North-East reporters – along with Fabrizio Romano – suggested the severity of his latest hamstring injury had the potential to impact, or at least delay, his arrival on Tyneside, but the fact he’s fit enough to make the squad today suggests there’s nothing to worry about on that front.
The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards stated this morning that talks are ‘ongoing’ over the finer details of the deal – agent fees were said to be the final hurdle – however he believes it’s a move that will finally be ‘concluded soon.’
As for Sven Botman, the Northern Echo have released a positive piece today claiming that the club are confident of sealing a deal for the giant Dutchman over the coming week as AC Milan have ‘effectively admitted defeat.’
Chief Writer Scott Wilson says the Italian giants aren’t willing to match the offer we’ve submitted – £30m plus add-ons – and that Dan Ashworth will step up talks with the 22-year-old in a bid to agree personal terms next week, having been spotted in the stands on Saturday to watch him in action against Wales U21’s.
Botman described Newcastle as a “nice project” when speaking out about our interest back in January, so hopefully our new sporting director is able to convince him to become our second signing of the summer at St James’ Park!
You do fail to mention that Dan Ashworth was at the ground to watch his son play for Wales. Botman being there was a bonus, not the reason for Dan’s attendance.
PremAndUp(Quote)
Not according to the Northern Echo. They say he was there to watch Botman.
Ashworth’s son was also on the bench and didn’t feature at all.
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
Yes, he would have known the team selection before he went.
If Botman wasn’t there would he have still gone to watch his son?
Ask any father, they will always prioritise watching their son.
As to the Northern Echo, that all knowing, never got anything wrong in their life, fountain of all knowledge. That proves it does it?
PremAndUp(Quote)
Have to agree with Prem on this one.
Ashworth wasn’t brought in to scout players – his job is to get deals done for players that have been well scouted ready.
Besides, from what we read the deal is already underway for Botman, so why would it need our technical direction scouting him at this stage.
Sharpy17(Quote)
The truth is probably somewhere in the middle mate. It’s possible he was there to see both.
If Botman was playing today against Scotland U21’s, I’d like to bet he would’ve been there…
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
After the game, Botman was officially free from international duty and ready to plan his next move, so there’s a chance Ashworth went to watch his son during the game and speak with Botman after the game…
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
Olly – I’m sure that’s when most footballers choice to discuss their futures and multi million pound contract. Quick shower, bit of Lynx and straight down to business.
Sharpy17(Quote)
Who said transfer talks had to be glamourous? lol
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
Olly ..Your wasting your breath with these two … everyone can see the sense in what your stating .. except these two sociopaths
Mike(Quote)