Chelsea are ready to set a new Premier League transfer record to acquire Alexander Isak from Newcastle United.
The two clubs have already started discussions, and Chelsea is willing to exceed the £115 million they spent on Moises Caicedo last summer.
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After overcoming injuries that hindered his progress in recent years, Isak had an impressive season with Newcastle last year.
The 24-year-old striker scored 25 goals, solidifying his reputation as one of the top forwards in European football.
Newcastle is hesitant to sell one of their key players and is also trying to keep midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who is being pursued by Arsenal and Manchester City.
However, a record-breaking offer might be too tempting to refuse, especially since Isak has been noncommittal about his future after Newcastle failed to qualify for European competitions.
Although reports suggested Isak was about to sign a new contract with Newcastle, MailSport believes such claims are premature.
In response to the rumours linking him with a move, Isak told Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen: ‘I’m enjoying myself very, very much in Newcastle.
‘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 added: ‘I actually have no thoughts of a move or anything like that. I enjoy myself fantastically well and am very happy with my life.’
‘It is not something I am speculating on,’ he replied. Within the team and the club there has been no talk or drama around it.
‘I have not received any information from the club that they would need to sell me.’
Bolstering the forward line, which currently includes the injury-prone Christopher Nkunku and the inexperienced Nicolas Jackson, is a top priority for new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea had shown interest in Aston Villa’s John Duran, but they have pulled back after conducting background checks on the Colombian international.
The Blues have also inquired about Lille’s Canadian forward Jonathan David, who could be available at a bargain price since he has just over a year left on his contract.
Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier and Atletico Madrid’s Samuel Omorodion are also targets, while negotiations are ongoing with Barcelona regarding their highly-rated teenager Marc Guiu.
