Nicolas Jackson at the Heart of Summer Transfer Negotiations
There’s a familiar buzz around St James’ Park, and this time it’s all about Nicolas Jackson. Since joining Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023, the Senegalese forward has shown flashes of brilliance, but he’s hungry for a bigger role—something that Newcastle United are ready to offer. His camp is pushing for regular starts, and with Newcastle’s main man Alexander Isak sometimes injury-prone, there’s a clear opening in Eddie Howe's line-up for another dynamic striker.
Newcastle have gone straight to work. Negotiations aren’t just a rumor—the Magpies have been talking directly with Chelsea’s representatives and Jackson’s agents. For the player, the move ticks all the boxes. He wants to be a leading man and sees Newcastle, now backed by PIF’s major investment, as a golden opportunity. His team aren’t fussed about agreeing personal terms. It’s clear: Jackson’s all-in for Newcastle if the clubs work out the numbers.
Hammering Out the Numbers: Chelsea Hold Firm on Asking Price
The only thing holding back a done deal is a good old-fashioned stand-off over cash. Chelsea believe Jackson’s value sits at £70 million. Why? He’s got proven Premier League experience, can play out wide or through the middle, and adjusted quickly to English football—a huge tick when you consider how many foreign forwards flop in their first year. Newcastle, though, won’t just write a blank cheque, especially with UEFA’s Profit and Sustainability Rules watching their spend this window.
Right now, Newcastle have put £60 million on the table—a solid offer but still shy of what Chelsea want. Chelsea’s stance isn’t as rigid as first suggested; earlier whispers spoke of fees as high as £80 million, even £100 million. Manager Enzo Maresca has openly admitted Jackson could be on his way this summer, so it’s clear something can give if Newcastle budge just a little.
Amid these talks, Newcastle’s shopping list looks longer than just Jackson’s name. Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa is on the radar, and club scouts are checking out a quick and tricky African winger (though no names are coming out yet). But Jackson fits a real need—a pacey, strong forward who can rotate with Isak in attack as Newcastle juggle Premier League and Champions League fixtures. With Eddie Howe planning for nearly 50 games next season, depth isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
For Jackson, the next few weeks are pivotal. Newcastle offer an ambitious project, Champions League nights, and the real prospect of starting up front. For Chelsea, a hefty profit and reinvestment opportunity could be ideal. Now it’s down to both boards to close the gap and get the deal over the line before the window’s biggest names start moving elsewhere.