Newcastle United weigh up £15m striker swoop after Hugo Ekitike transfer blow

Newcastle United are targeting a move for Bordeaux forward Sekou Mara after failing to land Hugo Ekitike.

That’s according to RMC Sport journalist Loic Tanzi, who claims the Magpies have switched their focus towards the 19-year-old.

It comes after Reims president Jean-Pierre Caillot confirmed the French club have accepted an offer from Paris Saint-German for Ekitike.

“We didn’t quite reach the sum offered by Newcastle but Hugo Ekitike has always been respectful towards the club,” Caillot said.

“We are happy to allow him to fulfill his dream.”

The Magpies came close to signing Ekitike during the January transfer window but the France under-20s international decided against a mid-season move.

United quickly revisited a deal this summer and agreed a fee, reportedly £26m plus and £4.25m in add-ons, but were unable to finalise a move after running into difficulties with his agent.

Newcastle remained open to a transfer if Ekitike’s agent lowered his demands. However, the saga is officially over with the 20-year-old set to join PSG.

Eddie Howe has been exploring other targets and according to journalist Tanzi, Mara has emerged as a target.

It’s claimed Bordeaux have set their asking price at £13million, although face competition from La Liga outfit Atletico Madrid.

Mara scored seven goals in 36 Ligue 1 appearances last summer before the French outfit were demoted to the third-tier after entering financial trouble.