According to sources, Chelsea has contacted Newcastle again about attacker Alexander Isak as they aim to improve their team.
The Blues are looking for a striker to compete with Nicolas Jackson, who dazzled in his debut season with 14 Premier League goals, and have signed Barcelona starlet Marc Guiu.
Despite Guiu’s arrival Chelsea are still reportedly in the market for another striker and have been linked with a whole host of names across Europe.
It was reported earlier this week that Chelsea had contacted Newcastle about the Sweden international, but were informed it would cost more than the £115 million they spent Brighton for Moises Caicedo to lure the striker away from Newcastle.
According to subsequent reports, the Blues were unable to pursue a deal for the 24-year-old due to financial constraints.
However, in an unexpected change of events, Sky Sports writer Keith Downie revealed on Friday that the clubs had made new contact with Isak.
🚨 Chelsea have had further contact with Newcastle over striker Alexander Isak today.
❓Newcastle do not want to sell any of their star players but are in a difficult position with PSR deadline looming on July 1.
💴 Isak, who scored 25 goals last season despite a recurring groin… pic.twitter.com/BFViok36D0— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) June 28, 2024
He went to X.com and wrote:
“Chelsea have had further contact with Newcastle over striker Alexander Isak today.
“Newcastle do not want to sell any of their star players but are in a difficult position with PSR deadline looming on July 1.
“Isak, who scored 25 goals last season despite a recurring groin injury, would be valued upwards of £100m.
“Chelsea made a tentative enquiry for the Swede earlier this week, and there’s been further contact since.”
With Newcastle under pressure to raise funds before Sunday’s profit and sustainability deadline, Chelsea appears to be seeking to capitalise on any ambiguity or shift in the Magpies’ attitude on one of its top players.
According to Ben Jacobs, Newcastle value Isak at £120 million, while The Telegraph’s Matt Law adds that a deal might only happen if Newcastle lowers their expectations or Chelsea includes players.
While a trade is obviously doubtful, it begs the issue of why Chelsea has contacted Newcastle again if they do not want to test their resolve for the Swede in any way.
When it comes to Chelsea’s transfer market, one thing is certain: expect the unexpected, and a blockbuster move for Isak could be worth keeping an eye out for.