Nicolas Jackson to Newcastle United – Could the £80 Million Chelsea Striker Be Their Perfect Plan B?
Talks have already taken place between Nicolas Jackson and Newcastle United. The Magpies are looking to regroup after missing out on their top forward target, Benjamin Sesko, who has opted for a move to Manchester United instead. That development has opened the door for Chelsea’s Jackson, with both parties reportedly exploring the possibility of a transfer this summer.
Chelsea are prepared to sanction his exit, provided the right offer arrives. Jackson is valued at around £80 million by the club, though Newcastle are understood to be hoping to bring that figure closer to £60 million. Despite the difference in valuations, Newcastle have not ruled out making a formal approach.
The 24-year-old striker is open to a move to St James’ Park. With Eddie Howe keen on fresh attacking options and Newcastle aiming to solidify their position among the Premier League’s elite, Jackson could become a central figure in their plans.
Jackson’s Numbers and the Debate Around His Output
Since arriving from Villarreal in the summer of 2023 for a fee in the region of £32 million, Jackson has had a somewhat mixed spell at Stamford Bridge. Across 81 appearances in all competitions, the Senegal international has netted 30 goals. That includes 14 goals in his debut campaign and 10 goals in the current 2024–25 Premier League season. He has 78 goal contributions in 171 games for the Blues, which is honestly great for a 24-year-old.
These are decent numbers, especially considering the instability Chelsea have gone through during that period. Jackson’s movement, physicality and pressing work have been praised, yet his decision-making and finishing have often left fans frustrated. At times, he has been guilty of squandering clear chances and drifting offside too easily.
Still, his age, experience in the Premier League, and raw attributes make him a valuable asset. Chelsea insiders believe his worth matches or even exceeds that of other forwards on the market, including Sesko and Hugo Ekitike. With Chelsea signing new attacking names this window, including Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, Jackson’s role in the team seems increasingly limited. That adds weight to the idea of a potential sale.
Why Newcastle Are Seriously Considering Him
Jackson’s Premier League experience, combined with his ability to play both centrally and wide, adds appeal. His pressing game and work ethic suit Howe’s system, while his pace and strength would offer a different dynamic alongside or in place of Isak.
He is not just being considered as a backup or a panic buy. The club believes there is a long-term project in place, and signing a player of Jackson’s age and profile aligns with that vision. His potential resale value and development ceiling also tick boxes from a business standpoint.
Is Jackson the Right Fit for the Magpies?
There is a fair case both for and against this move. On one hand, Jackson has shown flashes of real quality, and with better service and confidence, he could hit higher numbers. He also offers versatility, which is important for a team that wants to rotate across competitions.
On the other hand, there are valid concerns about his composure in front of goal and consistency. His scoring rate in the league is currently one in four, which is respectable but not elite. Newcastle may be hoping he can iron out those flaws under a more structured setup.
Whether Jackson becomes a smart signing or an overpriced risk will depend on his adaptation, coaching, and how Newcastle structures their attacking line. For now, he appears to be a very realistic alternative after the Sesko disappointment and is a name worth keeping a close eye on as the window progresses.
If Liverpool get their hands on Isak, a deal for Jackson might be likely, and the Magpies will make sure this doesn’t scuff up in any way.
