Newcastle step up pursuit of French wonderkid Hugo Ekitike, 19, but are reluctant to meet the £25m asking price Reims are demanding to part ways with the striker compared to Kylian Mbappe and David Trezeguet

Newcastle are in talks to sign French wonderkid Hugo Ekitike - but are currently reluctant to meet the Reims striker’s £25million valuation.

Having agreed a deal to sign Chris Wood from Burnley on Tuesday night in a transaction worth £25million, the Magpies are interested in adding to their goal threat with a move for the 19-year-old Ekitike.

Initial discussions over a move are underway, but Newcastle have so far refused to meet the price quoted and value the player at £20million.

Newcastle are in talks to sign 19-year-old French wonderkid Hugo Ekitike from Reims

Newcastle value Ekitike at £20m, but the French side want £25m before parting ways

Intriguingly, however, Sportsmail understands that Ekitike is interested in Newcastle’s project under the new Saudi-led regime and is open to a move to St James’ Park.