Toon Euro blow is an Ed-ache...

NEWCASTLE’S inability to offer European football is frustrating their recruitment drive for stars.

Toon have failed to clinch a deal for Lille’s Sven Botman because the Dutch international is understood to prefer a move to Serie A champions AC Milan.

Now another long-time target is having second thoughts about signing for Eddie Howe (above) with Hugo Ekitike’s head being turned by interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

Newcastle officials agreed a £30million fee with Reims for Ekitike over a fortnight ago and had hoped to unveil the French striker this week.

But the deal has stalled with both PSG and Borussia Dortmund belatedly entering the race to sign the youngster – leaving Newcastle still awaiting a definitive answer from him.

Howe is expecting movement out of the club with North East neighbours Middlesbrough interested in keeper Karl Darlow and striker Dwight Gayle.

Newly promoted Nottingham Forest could re-sign Jamaal Lascelles while Bournemouth want their former player Matt Ritchie.