United remain in the hunt for a Premier League striker before transfer deadline day
Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, Newcastle's Alexander Isak and Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea
Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, Newcastle's Alexander Isak and Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea
Newcastle United and Aston Villa will reportedly be offered the chance to sign Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson for £60m as the transfer window nears what could be a dramatic conclusion.
The Magpies are in the hunt for at least one Premier League striker, ideally two, before the window closes on September 1 as Eddie Howe looks for much-needed reinforcements for his attacking line-up.
United had always intended to replace Callum Wilson after the former No 9's contract expired at the end of last season, but now face the daunting prospect of losing star striker Alexander Isak.
The 25-year-old does not intend to play for Newcastle again as he pushes for a transfer to Liverpool, although United have yet to receive an offer that is anywhere close to their £150m valuation of the Swede.
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Newcastle saw an improved offer of around £40m for Brentford's Yoane Wissa turned down on Wednesday, although they remain in talks with the Bees over a possible move and could return with a new bid.
Chelsea are looking to offload Jackson after signing Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer - both former Newcastle targets - with Villa boss Unai Emery said to be interested in the Senegal striker after they worked together at Villarreal.
Should Villa make a move for the 24-year-old frontman, that could mean Ollie Watkins becomes surplus to requirements at Villa Park, with Newcastle said to be interested in the England striker.
Watkins will turn 30 later this year and his pricetag could be considerably lower than the £60m quoted for Jackson. He has a proven Premier League record and featured 12 times in Villa's Champions League campaign last season.
Liverpool will no doubt be keeping a close eye on the situation as they look for any encouragement over Isak's future.
The Reds are yet to return with a second bid for the Swede but are aware that United will not consider selling their prize asset unless they have suitable replacements in te building - and and offer close to £150m arrives.
Isak will not be involved when the two sides meet at St James' Park on Monday night in what should be an enthralling Premier League encounter.