Exclusive: Newcastle Add Nicolas Jackson to Striker Shortlist Amid Isak Exit Fears

Newcastle have added Nicolas Jackson’s name to their list of potential signings if Alexander Isak is lured away by Liverpool, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Although Benjamin Sesko and Yoane Wissa are also confirmed targets, profit and sustainability regulations will prevent Magpies boss Eddie Howe from investing all of Isak’s proposed £100m fee into a single replacement.

That has seen Jackson emerge as a possible acquisition, given the Senegal international’s relatively modest salary and uncertain future in west London.

Manchester United, Juventus and Milan are also keeping a watching brief on the striker’s situation at Stamford Bridge ahead of the forthcoming Premier League campaign.

But Newcastle would prove an attractive option for Jackson and his representatives given the club’s ambitions since being purchased by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

Howe has not entirely given up hope of retaining Isak’s services following a superb series of performances last term. 

SWITCH PROSPECT

But he is wise enough to realise that the prospect of a switch to the reigning champions is likely to prove both exciting and unsettling for Newcastle’s most valuable performer. 

That knowledge has prompted him, in tandem with the Magpies’ sporting department, to identify players capable of filling the void should the worst happen Isak leaves.

Sesko, who has scored 39 goals in less than 90 appearances for RB Leipzig is chief among them. 

However, like Brentford’s Wissa, Jackson is already acclimatised to the rigours of English football and, given his combative style, would seamlessly fit into Howe’s tactical masterplan.

After weeks of speculation, Isak has now gone public with his desire to explore options away from St James’ Park. 

Having previously remained tightlipped about his ambitions, interest from Anfield has persuaded the Sweden international to confirm he is exploring a move elsewhere.

OBLIGATION

If the Magpies do sell, their owners’ desire to become a genuine European force would obligate them to hand Howe the entirety of any fee they might receive from Liverpool. 

But PSR legislation would make it difficult for them to recruit the type of centre-forward likely to command a similar price tag. That is why Howe is considering bringing in not one but two new attackers should Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak prove successful.

Jackson was one of the first names on Chelsea’s team sheet during the previous campaign. 

However, the arrival of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro over the summer means he now faces a battle to command a place in Enzo Maresca’s first choice eleven - particularly given Pedro’s impact ahead of his new employers’ triumph over Paris St Germain at the World Club Championships in the States.