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Newcastle close in on £36m capture of Reims striker Hugo Ekitike... with Eddie Howe targeting one of Europe's hottest teenagers as he looks to bolster his front-line ahead of new season

Newcastle United are closing on a deal to sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike for around £36million.

The 19-year-old has agreed to join Newcastle despite interest from Borussia Dortmund and is due to sign a five year contract.

Ekitike is regarded as one of the best young strikers in Europe after blossoming under Reims boss Oscar Garcia, the former Watford and Brighton coach.

Sportsmail revealed in January how the France U20 international had emerged as a target for Newcastle's new owners.