Chelsea have entered preliminary talks with Newcastle United over a potential record-breaking transfer for striker Alexander Isak. However, sources indicate that the deal is already encountering significant obstacles.
The Blues are determined to bolster their attack this summer, with new manager Enzo Maresca overseeing the transfer strategy alongside Paul Winstanly and Behdad Eghbali. Despite considering several high-profile targets like Ivan Toney, Victor Osimhen, and Viktor Gyokeres, Chelsea have now prioritized signing Newcastle’s prolific forward, Isak.
Journalist Craig Hope reports that discussions between Chelsea and Newcastle are underway, with the London club prepared to set a new British transfer record for the Swedish striker. This would surpass their previous records set by the £106.9m acquisition of Enzo Fernandez and the £115m signing of Moises Caicedo.
Major Obstacle in Chelsea’s Pursuit of Isak
Isak joined Newcastle in the summer of 2022 for a club-record fee of £63m. Despite an injury-marred debut season, he scored 10 goals in 27 appearances. His performance significantly improved in the 2023/24 season, where he netted 25 goals in 40 appearances, attracting interest from top clubs including Arsenal.
Although Newcastle may need to consider a big-money sale to balance their finances and comply with Premier League’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, Isak has been considered untouchable. Chelsea’s willingness to break the transfer record with an offer around £120m has prompted reluctant discussions from Newcastle.
TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Frazer Gillan, confirms Chelsea’s genuine interest and ongoing talks regarding Isak. Despite positive signals from the striker’s camp, Gillan acknowledges the deal’s complexity, with Newcastle also contemplating the future of another striker, Callum Wilson.
Isak’s Commitment to Newcastle
Despite the transfer speculations, Isak has expressed his contentment at Newcastle. Speaking to Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen, he shared his joy about life on Tyneside and his satisfaction with the club, fans, and city.
“I’m enjoying myself very, very much in Newcastle,” Isak stated. “I just had the best season of my career. That should not be underestimated. I love everything really about the club, the fans, the city.”
Isak, who is contracted with Newcastle until 2028 and earns approximately £120,000 a week, dismissed any speculation about his potential sale due to Profit and Sustainability Rules. “I have not received any information from the club that they would need to sell me,” he added.
As Chelsea and Newcastle navigate these preliminary talks, the football world watches closely to see if this record-breaking transfer will come to fruition. Stay tuned to Sweet Melodies FM for the latest updates on this developing story.
