Newcastle United were outmuscled by Liverpool for Hugo Ekitike over the summer.
Former Sky Sports presenters Richard Keys and Andy Gray have argued over whether Hugo Ekitike should have joined Newcastle United.
The Frenchman is no stranger to the Magpies, having snubbed a St James’ Park switch on three occasions. Newcastle wanted Ekitike early into the Saudi-backed era when he was still a relative unknown at Reims.
He ultimately joined Paris Saint-Germain before United renewed their interest over the summer. However, the 23-year-old - viewed as a possible replacement for Alexander Isak - joined Liverpool.
Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak dilemma
Ekitike has enjoyed a fine start at Anfield, bagging in the Community Shield and twice at Premier League level. But the arrival of Alexander Isak has raised concerns about where the striker will play.
Isak was left out of Liverpool’s squad against Burnley as he works on his fitness - largely due to downing tools at Newcastle all summer. Ekitike started but was far from convincing, with Arne Slot hooking him on 72 minutes while chasing a winner.
Andy Gray on Hugo Ekitike
Speaking to beIN Sports, Gray suggested Ekitike should have been more informed on Liverpool’s move for Isak. He said: “(When) Ekitike is joining Liverpool (and) he speaks to them, he certainly would have asked them, ‘What are your plans for me? What do you see me doing?’
“I can’t believe he joined the team after being told, ‘Well, we’re going to sign you, but after we’ve got you, we’re going to buy Alexander Isak for double the price you’ve cost, so you’re going to play a few games, but you won’t play quite as much as you might expect.”
Richard Keys disagrees
His co-host Keys believes it is naive to think the Reds did not make their transfer plans clear. He replied: “I can’t believe he and his agent hadn't read a newspaper or were unaware of Liverpool's interest in Alexander Isak.
“I am certain Liverpool said to them, Richard Hughes and maybe Arne Slot, you'll play half the matches. We have 70 games, you'll play half of them so we want you to come and play. If I've got a choice of joining Newcastle of the league champions, one of the best, if not the best, team in Europe right now, I know where I'm going.”
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