Fabrizio Romano: Newcastle now discussing move for £80m striker instead of Benjamin Sesko
The Magpies’ pursuit of Benjamin Šeško appears destined for disappointment as multiple reports indicate the RB Leipzig striker favors a move to Manchester United.
This development leaves Eddie Howe’s recruitment team scrambling to identify viable alternatives, with Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson emerging as a potential solution according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Newcastle had tabled a substantial £68 million guaranteed offer with £8.6 million in add-ons for Šeško, only to be outmaneuvered by their northwest rivals.
The Slovenian’s anticipated rejection represents the latest setback in Newcastle’s striker search, following failed pursuits of Hugo Ekitike, Liam Delap, and João Pedro – all of whom opted for alternative destinations.
Jackson’s profile presents an intriguing but complex option for the Tyneside club. The Senegalese international has demonstrated flashes of brilliance during his Chelsea tenure, notching 24 Premier League goals across two seasons while ranking among the Blues’ top performers in several key attacking metrics:
- 2nd in squad goalscoring (10)
- 4th for assists (5)
- Joint-2nd for shots per game (2.5)
- 4th in average match rating (6.88)
However, Romano’s exclusive newsletter reveals Newcastle’s deliberations extend beyond Jackson, with multiple candidates under consideration.
The Chelsea forward’s £80 million valuation raises questions about financial prudence, particularly given his inconsistent form at international level (1 goal in 20 appearances for Senegal).
The potential acquisition carries additional strategic implications. Jackson’s arrival could precipitate Alexander Isak’s departure, with Liverpool reportedly preparing a record-breaking bid for the Swedish striker.
Such a scenario would leave Newcastle’s attacking resources arguably diminished rather than strengthened – a concerning prospect for supporters anticipating progression after last season’s European qualification.
As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, Newcastle’s hierarchy face critical decisions. Jackson offers Premier League pedigree and room for development under Howe’s coaching, but whether he represents sufficient compensation for losing out on primary targets remains debatable.
The coming weeks will reveal whether the Magpies settle for contingency options or find a way to secure a marquee signing capable of elevating their ambitions.
This unfolding saga underscores the challenges facing ambitious clubs operating just below the elite tier. While Newcastle’s financial muscle has grown since their takeover, they continue to encounter difficulties convincing top targets to choose Tyneside over established Champions League contenders.
Jackson may represent a pragmatic solution, but his acquisition would come with lingering questions about whether he possesses the quality to propel Newcastle to the next level.
The recruitment team’s ability to identify and secure an adequate alternative will prove crucial in determining whether this transfer window represents a setback or merely a detour on the club’s upward trajectory.
With preseason preparations intensifying, time is of the essence to ensure Howe has the tools required to build on last season’s progress.