With less than 10 days until the transfer window closes, Newcastle United are now reportedly eyeing a deal to sign a Premier League rival alongside Manchester City.
Latest on Newcastle's striker search
Whilst it seemed as though things were finally looking up for Newcastle when a deal was back on the table for Yoane Wissa and Malick Thiaw arrived, they now look destined to suffer a cruel transfer twist yet again. Reports are now suggesting that, despite Brentford's initial decision to ease their stance, the Bees are now demanding in excess of £60m to sell their forward, who is back training with the squad.
As things stand, the closest that Newcastle have come to meeting Brentford's demands is an offer worth £40m. Whether that changes before the transfer window slams shut remains the big question, but the forward is no longer the only name on the Magpies' shortlist.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jorgen Strand Larsen has also entered Newcastle's radar, according to recent reports. The towering Norway international enjoyed an excellent debut campaign in the Premier League last time out and would undoubtedly be an ideal alternative to Wissa this month.
Strand Larsen (2)
Like Brentford, however, Wolves are in no mood to hand Newcastle a cut-price in the remaining days of the window - reportedly demanding over £60m to sell their star striker.
Just where Newcastle take their striker search next remains to be seen in a summer full of twists, especially with recent rumours indicating that their next signing may even be a Premier League defender instead.
Newcastle eyeing Acheampong alongside Man City
According to Caught Offside, Newcastle are now eyeing a deal to sign Josh Acheampong from Chelsea in a fresh transfer race against Manchester City. The 19-year-old started Chelsea's opening day draw against Crystal Palace, keeping a clean sheet in what was a solid performance despite the Blues' shortcomings going in the other direction.
Now on Newcastle's radar, the teenager would offer Eddie Howe instant versatility thanks to his ability to play as both a right-back and a centre-back. Whether the Magpies can convince Chelsea to sell their young star is another question entirely, however. As things stand, despite interest from City and Newcastle, those at Stamford Bridge have stood firm on their stance that Acheampong is not for sale.
Described as a "superb defender in the making" by scout Jacek Kulig, Acheampong is certainly one to watch no matter where he plays his football this season and beyond.