Newcastle United remain keen on Reims striker Hugo Ekitike.

But! says Newcastle were desperate to sign Ekitike in January after the club were taken over by a mega-rich Saudi-led consortium last autumn.

But the Reims ace turned down the opportunity to move to St James' Park amid fears that the team would be relegated to the Championship.

The northeast club have enjoyed a stellar run of form since the end of December and went on a nine-game unbeaten league run. They are now 10 points above the drop zone and look likely to retain their top-flight status come the end of the season.

And Newcastle are continuing their pursuit of Ekitike ahead of the summer transfer window, with the player becoming increasingly receptive to a move.