Newcastle Turn to Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson After Benjamin Sesko Blow

Newcastle United are considering a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson following a major setback in their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

The Magpies had been pushing to sign the Slovenian forward in a deal worth up to €85 million, but the 22-year-old is now closing in on a move to Manchester United.

This has left Eddie Howe and his recruitment team no choice but to explore alternative options, with Jackson among the most prominent on their shortlist.

Sources close to the club suggest that Jackson, 24, is viewed as a player who could fit Newcastle’s high-intensity, front-foot style, and Chelsea are open to offers following their own busy summer in the market.

Are Chelsea Selling Nicolas Jackson?

Chelsea have strengthened their forward line with the additions of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro in a £90 million double swoop.

That leaves Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge uncertain, despite his solid goalscoring record over the past two seasons.

The Senegal international hit 17 goals in his debut Premier League campaign and followed that up with 13 last season, including a purple patch of nine goals in 15 appearances during the winter.

However, his campaign ended on a sour note after he was sent off against Newcastle in May, and his place under Enzo Maresca is far from guaranteed.

With Chelsea’s attacking depth increasing, Jackson is no longer considered untouchable, and Newcastle may see an opportunity to strike.

What Would Nicolas Jackson Bring to Newcastle?

While not the most high-profile striker in the Premier League, Jackson has proven to be effective when on form.

His speed, pressing ability, and willingness to run in behind make him a good stylistic fit for Howe’s system – and his 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances for Chelsea show he can contribute.

Here’s a look at Jackson’s league output over the last two seasons:

He’s also expected to be Senegal’s lead striker at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, which would mean a period of absence mid-season – something Newcastle would need to plan around.

Should Newcastle Sign Nicolas Jackson?

There are a couple of potential snags Newcastle would need to consider.

Firstly, Jackson still has one game of a three-match suspension to serve following his red card against the Magpies on the final day last season.

That means he would be unavailable for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa on August 16, if a move is completed before then.

Secondly, the Africa Cup of Nations could sideline Jackson for up to six games across December and January, depending on Senegal’s progress. That’s a crucial period for Newcastle both in the league and in Europe, and squad depth would be tested.

Despite those challenges, Jackson remains one of the few viable striker targets left on the market after Newcastle missed out on Sesko, Joao Pedro, and Hugo Ekitike in recent weeks.

Newcastle Transfer News

Newcastle’s summer business has so far been frustrating. They’ve lost ground in the race for several priority targets and face pressure to bring in reinforcements before the season begins.

The club remain committed to keeping Alexander Isak, who continues to attract long-term interest from Liverpool. Rather than replace the Swede, the aim is to find a partner or strong rotation option – a role Jackson could feasibly fill.

With Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool all strengthening their front lines, the pressure is on the Magpies to respond.

Whether Jackson is the solution remains to be seen, but he is one of the few remaining strikers on the market with a proven Premier League track record and a price Chelsea may be willing to negotiate.