Newcastle United learn £17m reduced asking price for player that almost signed in January

Newcastle United have discovered how much it will take to finally conclude a deal for January transfer target Hugo Ekitike.

The Reims youngster has impressed during a breakthrough season in Ligue 1 and looked set to make a deadline day switch to Tyneside after the Magpies agreed a fee with his club.

Ekitike reportedly turned down the move and citing concerns over United’s battle against relegation and a willingness to see out the season with his current employers as the key drivers behind his decision.

The Magpies remain keen on a deal and have monitored his progress 11 goals in 26 appearances for Reims to help them just below mid-table in France’s top tier.

Long-serving striker Dwight Gayle is likely to leave St James Park this summer and a number of Championship clubs are said to be interested in the former Crystal Palace frontman.

His departure would leave top goalscorer Callum Wilson and January signing Chris Wood as the only senior strikers remaining in Eddie Howe’s squad.

United are believed to be considering adding at least one forward to their squad during the summer transfer window and Ekitike is one option that remains high in their list of priorities.

They will face competition with Arsenal and West Ham United said to be interested and German giants Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring the 19-year-old as they look to replace Manchester City-bound Erling Haaland.

However, Reims president Jean-Pierre Caillot has revealed the initial asking price for his prized asset and believes a move to Paris Saint-Germain would not be beneficial at this stage of Ekitike’s career.

He told the French media: “The amount should be more than €20million. Afterwards, you have to know how to be reasonable.

“He has the qualities to one day join this type of club (PSG), but I think it's still too early.

“It 's typically the kind of environment where he could continue to grow and move on.”

Ekitike is not the only forward said to be under consideration by the United recruitment team with moves for the likes of Everton star Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Benfica’s in-demand star Darwin Nunez also mentioned.