Newcastle consider £100m striker as Liverpool prepare Isak bid | OneFootball

Newcastle Assess Nicolas Jackson as Striker Search Intensifies

Newcastle United have added Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson to their shortlist of striker targets amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of Alexander Isak, according to GiveMeSport.

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While no formal approach has yet been made, journalist Craig Hope reports that Jackson is being evaluated as part of a wider pool that includes Benjamin Sesko, Ollie Watkins and Yoane Wissa. The Magpies are preparing for the possibility of losing Isak, who has informed the club of his desire to leave during the current window.

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Liverpool have been identified as the Sweden international’s “priority destination” and are expected to submit a formal bid following the completion of Luis Diaz’s £66 million transfer to Bayern Munich.

Jackson emerges as viable option

Newcastle’s interest in Jackson is viewed as exploratory at this stage. Chelsea value the Senegal international at £100 million, significantly more than the £32 million they paid Villarreal for him in 2023. Described by the MailOnline as a “monster” striker, Jackson has made 81 appearances for the Blues, scoring 30 goals and contributing 12 assists across all competitions.

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The 23-year-old has reportedly slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, which could accelerate a potential exit should an acceptable offer be tabled.

Forward planning continues at St James’ Park

With Liverpool circling Isak and funds from the Diaz sale likely to fuel their pursuit, Newcastle are weighing up contingency plans. The club remain reluctant to lose their top scorer but are beginning to prepare in case a move becomes unavoidable.

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Jackson’s physical profile and Premier League experience make him a credible alternative, though his valuation may prove a stumbling block unless Chelsea lower their asking price.

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Nicolas Jackson is a talented forward, but £100 million for a player who hasn’t firmly cemented himself at Chelsea? That feels like a gamble at best and a desperation play at worst. The numbers, 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 games, are decent, but not transformative.

If Isak truly wants out, and Liverpool come with serious money, then fair enough, he goes. But replacing him with Jackson, especially at three times what Chelsea paid for him just last summer, raises more questions than answers.

You can understand exploring options like Sesko or Watkins, players who offer either long-term value or proven Premier League output. But Jackson? That feels like an opportunistic punt. If Newcastle are serious about pushing for top four again, this cannot be the marquee replacement.

Smart recruitment has been the club’s strength under this ownership. Overpaying for Chelsea’s cast-offs would be a departure from that philosophy and a worrying one at that.