Thierry Henry thinks Newcastle United could be proven right about Hugo Ekitike.
The Magpies tried desperately hard to sign Hugo Ekitike in 2023, only for the French forward to snub Newcastle United twice and sign for Paris Saint-Germain.
After a disastrous time in the French capital, Ekitike is now shining at Eintracht Frankfurt. The 22-year-old scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions this season, as Frankfurt qualified for the Champions League.
His form has resulted in fresh transfer interest, with Chelsea and Liverpool eyeing a deal. Newcastle have also been linked with Ekitike, with Eddie Howe keen to bring in attacking reinforcements.
Photo by Sebastian El-Saqqa - firo sportphoto/Getty Images
Photo by Sebastian El-Saqqa – firo sportphoto/Getty Images
Thierry Henry has high hopes for Hugo Ekitike
Geordie Boot Boys were told earlier this year that Newcastle staff are happy they have been proven right about Ekitike, as he begins to showcase the potential they knew he had.
It is potential that Thierry Henry thinks Ekitike has too, with the Arsenal legend telling Micah Richards that the forward has a very high ceiling.
Speaking on the latest episode of the Rest Is Football podcast, Richards shared details of his conversation with Henry about Ekitike.
“In terms of Ekitike, I’ve spoken to Thierry [Henry] about him a lot,” he said.
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“He says he’s not [necessarily] a frustrating player, but one minute he looks amazing and the next minute he does not do the basics very well.
“He said if he gets it right and improves then his ceiling could be very, very high.”
Newcastle United can get revenge on Chelsea with Ekitike
Newcastle have missed out on Liam Delap to Chelsea, with the 22-year-old deciding that Stamford Bridge is the right place for him.
That was a blow, as he looked ideal for Eddie Howe’s side. Alan Shearer wanted Delap at Newcastle, but he is taking his talents to West London.
As well as Delap, Chelsea want to sign another striker. They are eager to bring in Ekitike, with Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg stating that Enzo Maresca’s side are ‘pushing’ to finalise a deal.
If ever there was a time for the Magpies to seriously reignite their pursuit of Ekitike, it is now.
Newcastle are looking for a forward who can play alongside and provide cover for Alexander Isak. Ekitike can be that player. He dovetailed excellently with Omar Marmoush before the Egyptian’s move to Manchester City, while Toon officials valued his versatility when they first tried to sign him in 2023.
The youngster could be a perfect fit at St James’ Park, but time might be running out as Chelsea advance their interest.