Chelsea have reportedly set Nicolas Jackson's price tag at £60m amid interest from Newcastle United.
The Magpies' season began on Saturday afternoon, with Eddie Howe's side drawing 0-0 against Aston Villa away from home.
Though gaining a point at Villa Park should not be seen negatively, the Toon's lack of end product highlighted the need for a ruthless striker.
Isak has not taken part in training amid speculation that he wishes to join Liverpool, but Newcastle are yet to sign a replacement.
The Mirror report that supposed striker target Jackson is available from Chelsea for £60m, though Howe would face competition from Aston Villa for his signature.
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson in action on April 20, 2025
Is Nicolas Jackson a suitable replacement for Isak?
Against Aston Villa, Newcastle totalled 60% possession but mustered just three shots on target, the same number their opponents managed despite being reduced to 10 men in the 66th minute.
Isak's finishing ability was sorely missed, though Jackson has historically been a poor finisher given he has scored just 24 top-flight goals for Chelsea from 31 xG.
The ability to generate scoring chances is still positive, but Newcastle fans should not expect the Chelsea forward to be as lethal as Isak, who has scored 54 goals from 48.9 xG for the club in the Premier League.
Only five Premier League strikers registered more direct goal involvements (15) than the 24-year-old in 2024-25, but all five started more games, and perhaps Jackson's strong performances have been somewhat overlooked.
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson pictured on July 13, 2025
Do Liverpool have enough time to sign Isak this summer?
Newcastle are thought to be reluctant to sell Isak without signing a replacement, though with the September 1 transfer deadline looming, it could be difficult to convince clubs to sell their stars.
Brentford forward Yoane Wissa has been a key target all summer, but the Bees may be hesitant to sell the attacker this late in the the window.
Jackson has been frozen out of Chelsea, and considering the Blues have already bought Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, they have no need to make further additions up front.
Liverpool will hope that the Toon can get a deal over the line considering they risk being left short up front, with Hugo Ekitike currently their only recognised number nine.
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