Newcastle now hold talks for another ‘special’ striker alongside Sesko, club open to sale – journalist
Newcastle United have added Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson to their growing list of attacking targets as Eddie Howe looks to bolster his frontline ahead of their Champions League campaign.
The 24-year-old Senegal international has emerged as a viable option alongside primary target Benjamin Šeško, with initial discussions already taking place between the clubs to gauge a potential deal.
Jackson’s Premier League adaptation has impressed Newcastle’s recruitment team since his £32 million move from Villarreal last summer.
The pacy striker registered 10 goals and 5 assists in 30 appearances last season, demonstrating his ability to trouble top-flight defenses with his movement and finishing.
| Nicolas Jackson’s 2024/25 Premier League Stats | Output | Chelsea Squad Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 30 | 11th |
| Goals | 10 | 2nd |
| Assists | 5 | 4th |
| Shots Per Game | 2.5 | =2nd |
| Dribbles Per Game | 0.6 | =8th |
| Average Match Rating | 6.88 | 4th |
The former Villarreal man’s Premier League experience makes him an attractive alternative to Šeško, with Newcastle currently locked in a bidding war with Manchester United for the RB Leipzig striker.
Jackson’s physical attributes and pressing ability align well with Howe’s tactical demands, offering a different profile to current options Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.
Brentford’s Yoane Wissa remains another active target after his 19-goal Premier League campaign, with the Congolese international reportedly keen on a move to Tyneside.
Newcastle’s hierarchy are weighing multiple options, recognizing the need for both immediate quality and long-term potential as they prepare for European football’s elite competition.
Jackson’s Chelsea future appears uncertain despite his decent return last season.
The Blues’ bloated squad and Financial Fair Play considerations could make them receptive to offers, especially with younger alternatives like Jhon Durán and Marc Guiu now at Stamford Bridge.
Newcastle’s ability to offer Champions League football may prove decisive in convincing the Senegalese international, who has scored just once in 20 international appearances, to make the move north.
The potential acquisition would continue Newcastle’s strategy of recruiting players with Premier League experience, following last summer’s signings of Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
Jackson’s age and room for development make him an intriguing project, while his goal output suggests he could provide reliable backup or even challenge for a starting role.
As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, Newcastle face critical decisions about their attacking reinforcements.
Jackson represents a more proven but less glamorous option compared to Šeško, with the club’s final choice likely depending on Isak’s future and their success in other negotiations.
One thing is certain – Howe wants multiple attacking additions to handle the demands of competing on four fronts this season.