Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Nicolas Jackson’s Chelsea future will be decided in the “next hours and days”, with the striker almost certain to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

The 24-year-old has fallen down the pecking order after Chelsea secured attacking reinforcements in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. Now, several clubs are circling. Romano confirmed that Aston Villa and Newcastle United are leading the race, while Bayern Munich have also expressed interest—though their focus on loan signings could weaken their chances.

💬 “Movements are ongoing for Nicolas Jackson. He’s leaving Chelsea,” Romano explained. “Aston Villa are pushing, given Unai Emery knows him well from Villarreal. But Newcastle and Bayern are also in the race.”

Chelsea, however, are holding firm on their stance—they want a permanent transfer worth around £60m. That price tag could become a sticking point for any deal.

What This Means for Liverpool ⚡

For Arne Slot and Liverpool’s recruitment team, Jackson’s exit could have a domino effect. If Newcastle secure the Senegalese forward, it may open the door for Alexander Isak—Liverpool’s top striker target—to finally make the switch to Anfield.

With Champions League football on offer, the Magpies are favourites to land Jackson over Aston Villa. That move would allow Eddie Howe’s side to cash in on Isak, but only if Liverpool meet their staggering £150m valuation.

The Reds are still determined to land the Swedish forward, but whether Newcastle’s demands soften after landing Jackson remains to be seen.

The Big Question ❓

If Newcastle are willing to pay Chelsea’s £60m asking price for Jackson, shouldn’t they also be prepared to apply the same logic when demanding top dollar for Isak?

The coming days could prove decisive—not just for Chelsea and Newcastle, but for Liverpool’s hopes of adding a world-class striker to their attack.