Chelsea are expected to enter talks to sign an “unbelievable” £120m striker to replace Nicolas Jackson, amid growing fears that Arsenal will not be able to get a deal done, according to a report.
Striker needed at Stamford Bridge
Jackon’s form at the start of the campaign may have gone some way to winning over Chelsea fans, with the Senegalese forward scoring nine Premier League goals before Christmas, but his form has since tailed off.
The 23-year-old was without a goal in eight league games prior to his hamstring injury, and it would be fair to say Christopher Nkunku hasn’t fared a great deal better in his place, although the Frenchman returned to the scoresheet against Southampton.
Nkunku’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge is also in doubt, so it is clear they will need to bring in a new top-level striker this summer, and they now have a target in mind.
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They could land the bargain of the summer…
According to a report from GiveMeSport, Chelsea are expected to enter negotiations for Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak in the summer, with Enzo Maresca looking to bring in an upgrade on Jackson.
Isak is in high demand, with Arsenal and Liverpool also named as potential suitors, and the Blues are believed to be the Merseysiders’ biggest rivals for his signature.
With Newcastle setting an asking price of no less than £120m, the Gunners are concerned the Swedish forward might be out of their reach, potentially opening the door for a move to west London instead.
However, the 25-year-old is said to be desperate to play in the Champions League next season, so Chelsea’s chances of getting a deal done may hinge upon how strongly they finish the campaign.
“Unbelievable” Isak among the world’s best strikers
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has been full of praise for his striker this season, saying: “I love Alexander Isak, he has unbelievable quality.
“He’s the right age, has the right athletic profile, I signed him and love him. I wouldn’t swap him for anyone.”
There has also been debate over whether the Newcastle star has been the best striker in the world this season, given that he has scored 21 goals in all competitions this season, including 19 in 24 Premier League games.
Regardless of whether the Sweden international is the world’s best, he is clearly a top striker, given his goal record ever since arriving at St. James’ Park, but it could be very difficult for Chelsea to get a deal done.
Liverpool are in a very strong position to win the Premier League title, so if the Reds choose to step up their interest, a move to Anfield is likely to be more appealing, especially if Maresca’s side miss out on Champions League football once again.
