New Paris Saint Germain striker Hugo Ekitike has confirmed that he would have made the switch to Newcastle this summer had the French giants not made a move for his services.
Ekitike was a target for Newcastle in the January transfer window. They were confident of signing the French forward after agreeing a deal with Reims on deadline day.
However, the 20-year-old striker opted to remain with Reims instead of moving to Tyneside, which prompted Newcastle to renew their interest this summer.
Negotiations looked to be going smoothly between both Newcastle and Reims, until the deal for Ekitike collapsed once his agent, Karl Buchmann, began to demand extortionate agent fees.
READ MORE: Steve Bruce grateful for Pep Guardiola support amid 'emotional' Newcastle United experience
It led to the Magpies pulling the plug on the deal for the French starlet, who recently joined PSG on loan from Reims. And speaking to French outlet Le10 Sport, Ekitike has confirmed he would have joined Newcastle had it not been for the interest of PSG.
“I had an appointment with Luis [Campos] which meant a lot to me," Ekitike told Le10 Sport.
"It was not so long ago. We talked a lot, he is someone I value a lot. I wanted to come to PSG before this exchange [with Campos], but he convinced me even more [to go to PSG]
"I’m not setting aside everything Newcastle did for me to come. If I had to go abroad, I would have gone there. But when PSG wants you and you’re French, you can’t refuse."
READ NEXT
I wouldn't say no - Eddie Howe response when asked about signing Portugal's best players
Werner's agency refuse to comment on Newcastle link as huge wage demands emerge
Botman's candid story of Newcastle switch after AC Milan claimed victory on deal
Newcastle United can offer Timo Werner what he wants after Chelsea exit comments
Joelinton suspension explained after Newcastle United star sees red in Benfica clash
