It doesn’t sound like Hugo Ekitike is sold on a move to St James’ Park.
Speaking in a press conference earlier today, Reims manager Oscar Garcia has revealed that the 20-year-old is in no rush to leave the Ligue 1 side, telling him recently that he “wanted to stay.”
It’s been widely reported that we have agreed a fee with Reims, however a move for the Frenchman has stalled over the past fortnight, with the player’s agent believed to be causing issues behind the scenes.
That said, Garcia’s comments suggest Ekitike may also be pushing for bigger things, stating that he’s happy to stay in France – unless “Real Madrid and Barcelona come knocking…”
Here’s what his manager has had to say (via RMC Sport) when asked about his future today:
“He told me he wanted to stay, but if there’s Real Madrid and Barcelona who come knocking…
“I find Hugo calm.
“I spoke with him.
“He will have no problem staying at the club, and neither will I.”
I can see why he’s in no rush to commit to an early summer move as a 20-year-old who’s had just one year in senior football, but these comments – particularly the one on Real Madrid and Barcelona – make me believe both the player AND his agent have been holding out for something bigger…
Wow – I hope the lad has a ring doorbell incase he’s out when they come knocking then – I’d hate for him to miss them!!!.
The kid really fancies himself then doesn’t he ?.
I get the impression he’s a younger PEA.
Move on for me, I’d hate to get in Barcas way ?
Sharpy17(Quote)