Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth has now revealed the latest details of 'talks' going on at Newcastle United to try and sign Hugo Ekitike this summer.

The Lowdown: Dragging on...

The story of Ekitike potentially moving to St. James' Park has been dragging on ever since the season ended, with reports that they are closing in on a deal for the Reims striker.

However, a move has not materialised as of yet, casting doubt over whether it will get done before the new campaign starts, with some reports even claiming they are ready to move on.

The Latest: Talks 'difficult'

Taking to Twitter, Sheth has revealed that the North East club are 'still in talks' over Ekitike, although they have been 'difficult' and they are 'prepared to walk away' if further progress is not made:

"Newcastle United still in talks over Reims striker Hugo Ekitike - but are prepared to walk away if progress isn't made. Told talks have been difficult. PSG interested. Other clubs keen too."

The Verdict: Worrying

It is certainly worrying that a move for Ekitike has not gotten over the line yet, and that the Tynesiders could even walk away from the deal after so much time spent on one target.

Hailed as a ‘very special’ talent by his manager Oscar Garcia, some in France believe that the French teenager could become the ‘next Mbappe’, after bursting onto the scene in a similar vein to the PSG superstar with 11 goals and four assists last term (Transfermarkt).

Nonetheless, this is a deal that the Magpies will not want to see slip through their fingers, and so they will now be hoping for a breakthrough in discussions over the coming days.