Fabrizio Romano: Newcastle now asking for 13-goal striker – UCL club approve sale
The search for a new striker at Newcastle United continues to present challenges as the transfer window enters its final stages.
The situation has grown more complicated with the news that Yoane Wissa has returned to first-team training at Brentford, significantly reducing the likelihood of his move to Tyneside.
This development comes at a difficult time for manager Eddie Howe, who has been openly discussing the need to replace Callum Wilson throughout the summer.
Howe has consistently emphasized the importance of finding a suitable replacement for Wilson, noting that the departed striker’s absence leaves a void not just in terms of playing ability but also in leadership and personality within the squad.
This priority has shaped Newcastle’s transfer strategy for months, though progress has been slower than anticipated with several key targets slipping through their fingers.
In response to these challenges, Newcastle have turned their attention to Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Jørgen Strand Larsen. The 25-year-old Norwegian enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League season, scoring 14 goals after joining from Celta Vigo.
Wolves initially acquired Larsen on loan before making the move permanent for £23 million this summer, and they now value the striker at more than double that amount, placing his price tag in excess of £50 million.
Complicating any potential move is Wolves’ own shortage of attacking options and their understandable reluctance to sell such an important player so late in the transfer window.
While Newcastle have expressed interest through intermediaries, no formal approach has been made yet, reflecting the complexities of negotiating with a club that has little incentive to cooperate.
Another option under consideration is Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, who has been deemed available for transfer after falling down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
The Senegal international has scored 30 goals in 81 appearances since joining Chelsea two years ago, though his time in London has been marked by inconsistency and disciplinary issues, including a suspension that saw him miss the end of last season and the start of the current campaign.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle face significant competition for Jackson’s signature from both domestic and European clubs.
Aston Villa have emerged as serious contenders, making contact with all parties involved in recent days, while German giants Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation closely after expressing interest several weeks ago.
The competition for available strikers highlights the challenging market conditions Newcastle are navigating.
With time running out before the transfer deadline, the club must weigh the costs and benefits of pursuing expensive options like Larsen against potentially more affordable but less certain alternatives like Jackson.
The situation is further complicated by Alexander Isak’s continued absence from the squad, though Howe has remained focused on the specific task of replacing Wilson rather than addressing the broader striking issues.
This narrow focus reflects both the financial constraints facing the club and the specific tactical requirements of Howe’s system.
As the final days of the window approach, Newcastle’s recruitment team faces the difficult task of balancing ambition with pragmatism.
The right signing could provide the goals needed to build on last season’s progress, but an overpriced or unsuitable acquisition could hamper the club’s development for seasons to come.
The coming days will reveal whether Newcastle can secure their preferred target or whether they will need to settle for alternative options.
Whatever the outcome, the resolution of their striker search will significantly influence their prospects for the season ahead and their ability to compete on multiple fronts.
Available Striker Options Comparison
| Player | Club | Age | Last Season Goals | Estimated Fee | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jørgen Strand Larsen | Wolves | 25 | 14 | £50m+ | Physical presence, finishing |
| Nicolas Jackson | Chelsea | 24 | 13 | £35-40m | Pace, potential |
| Yoane Wissa | Brentford | 28 | 12 | £40m+ | Premier League experience |
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.