Newcastle now make U-turn to £60M Wissa alternative & Villa move opens for Isak saga
The final days of the transfer window are creating a fascinating puzzle for Newcastle United as they work to solve their striker situation.
With Alexander Isak still not training with the first team, the need for attacking reinforcements has become increasingly urgent. The club is now exploring multiple options to ensure they have enough firepower for the challenging season ahead.
At the forefront of their search is Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Jorgen Strand Larsen. The Norwegian striker has emerged as a primary target, viewed as a potential replacement for the departed Callum Wilson.
Standing at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches, Larsen offers a physical presence that would add a different dimension to Newcastle’s attack.
His 14 goals last season demonstrated his ability to find the net consistently, and at just 24 years old, he represents both an immediate solution and a long-term investment.
The pursuit of Larsen gained momentum after negotiations for Yoane Wissa encountered difficulties. Brentford’s firm stance on their valuation, combined with their need to secure a replacement first, made that deal increasingly complicated.
The Bees’ concerning 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest in their season opener heightened their reluctance to weaken the squad further, leaving Newcastle to explore alternative options.
Reports indicate that Newcastle’s latest offer for Larsen fell just £5 million short of Wolves’ asking price, suggesting a deal could be within reach if the clubs can find common ground.
The Norwegian international’s age profile and playing style make him an attractive option for Eddie Howe’s system, which values both technical ability and physical presence in attack.
Meanwhile, an interesting development at Aston Villa could create unexpected opportunities for Newcastle. Villa manager Unai Emery has identified Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson as a primary target, renewing their working relationship from their time together at Villarreal. Jackson’s potential move to Villa Park could set in motion a chain of events that benefits multiple clubs.
Should Jackson join Villa, it could make Ollie Watkins available for transfer. The England international has proven himself as a reliable Premier League goalscorer, and his experience would provide valuable leadership to Newcastle’s attacking line.
While Watkins turns 30 later this year, his consistent goal record and understanding of the league make him an appealing short-to-medium term solution.
This potential domino effect could ultimately facilitate Isak’s desired move to Liverpool. If Newcastle can secure both Larsen and Watkins for approximately £100 million combined, it would provide the attacking depth needed to justify selling their star striker.
However, this scenario would require Liverpool to significantly increase their £110 million offer to make the financial aspects work for all parties involved.
The coming days will be crucial in determining how this complex situation unfolds. Newcastle’s recruitment team faces the challenging task of balancing immediate needs with long-term planning, all while working within financial constraints and negotiating with multiple clubs simultaneously.
For Eddie Howe, securing the right attacking options could define Newcastle’s season. The team showed promise in their opening draw against Aston Villa, but the lack of a clinical finisher was evident.
Adding both a physical presence like Larsen and a proven goalscorer like Watkins would give Howe the tactical flexibility to approach different opponents in various ways.
As the transfer window enters its final hours, Newcastle supporters await news with anticipation. The resolution of this striker search will not only address the immediate need for attacking reinforcements but could also shape the club’s trajectory for the season ahead.
With European football on the horizon and ambitions of challenging for trophies, the importance of these potential signings cannot be overstated.
Potential Striker Options Comparison
| Player | Age | Height | Last Season Goals | Estimated Fee | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jorgen Strand Larsen | 24 | 6’4″ | 14 | £25-30m | Aerial ability, physical presence |
| Ollie Watkins | 29 | 5’11” | 16 | £40-45m | Premier League experience, movement |
| Yoane Wissa | 28 | 5’9″ | 12 | £35-40m | Finishing, versatility |
| Alexander Isak | 25 | 6’4″ | 19 | N/A | Technical quality, potential |
The table illustrates the different profiles Newcastle are considering as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
Each player offers distinct qualities that would contribute differently to the team’s playing style and tactical approach.
Ultimately, Newcastle’s ability to navigate these complex negotiations will test the club’s ambition and strategic planning.
The right business in these final days could transform their prospects for the season, providing the firepower needed to compete on multiple fronts and potentially challenge for European qualification once again.