Paris Saint-Germain forward Hugo Ekitiké, who has been on the sidelines since his cameo appearance against FC Lorient on the opening day of the Ligue 1 season, is drawing interest from Newcastle United, according to a report from L’Équipe. The player’s lack of involvement led PSG to include him as part of the deal to acquire Randal Kolo Muani from Eintracht Frankfurt. However, Ekitiké declined the move to the Bundesliga, almost causing the collapse of the deal. As a consequence, he has been dropped from the first-team and is seeking a move away to revive his career.
Despite interest from Olympique Lyonnais, Newcastle United appears to be a frontrunner in the pursuit of the out-of-favour PSG forward. Ekitiké’s decision to reject the proposed transfer to Frankfurt has left PSG displeased, making a departure from the Parisian club the likely scenario for the French youth international. While Lyon is also keen on Ekitiké, the competition from Newcastle United could complicate their efforts to secure the promising striker.
Ekitiké, a France youth international, has found himself in a precarious position at PSG since his refusal to move to Eintracht Frankfurt. His absence from the first-team setup has raised questions about his future at the club. Newcastle United, under manager Eddie Howe, is reportedly looking to capitalize on this situation, eyeing Ekitiké as a potential addition to strengthen their attacking options.
On the other hand, Lyon’s interest in Ekitiké is part of a broader restructuring effort within the club. With plans to make room for a new attacker, Lyon is actively open to selling some of their offensive players. Sinaly Diomandé, Tino Kadewere, and Mama Baldé are among the names mentioned as available for transfer. This strategic move aims to reshape Lyon’s attacking dynamics, and the potential departure of these players could play a pivotal role in facilitating both financial and roster adjustments.
Lyon’s Offensive Restructuring: Clearing Path for New Arrival
In a parallel development, Lyon is actively seeking to make room for the potential arrival of a new attacker by putting several offensive players on the market. Players such as Sinaly Diomandé, Tino Kadewere, and Mama Baldé are reported to be available for transfer. The club’s intention to reshape its attacking options signals a strategic move to strengthen the squad, and the departures of these players could contribute to funding and roster adjustments. With Ekitiké on the radar of both Newcastle United and Lyon, the latter faces the challenge of competing with the Premier League club in securing the Frenchman’s services amidst their efforts to streamline the squad.
As Lyon navigates the intricate transfer market, the prospect of securing Ekitiké becomes even more crucial, given the stiff competition from Newcastle United. The saga surrounding Ekitiké’s future adds a layer of complexity to the transfer dynamics, creating a narrative that will likely unfold as the January transfer window approaches. The tussle between the English and French clubs for the talented forward is one to watch, with both sides eager to make significant moves in the upcoming transfer window.
