Newcastle United are having to react to their latest setback in the transfer market - at a time when it is believed there is no way back for Alexander Isak.
It is emerging that Nicolas Jackson is in line as a potential signing, with club sources indicating he is viewed as a direct replacement for Isak, who is pushing to join Liverpool in what would be a British-record transfer.
It marks another turbulent twist in what is becoming a deeply frustrating summer on Tyneside.
Newcastle have already missed out on a string of top targets - the latest being Benjamin Sesko, who has sealed a move to Manchester United. But the Isak situation now looms large.
The Swedish striker has seen relations inside the club break down significantly, with tensions bubbling to the surface in recent weeks. Isak was even told to stay away from a club family barbecue amid the fallout.
While Liverpool have been tracking his situation closely and have personal terms in place for a move, Newcastle have insisted they will not allow a sale until they have a replacement through the door.
That replacement, they believe, could be Jackson.
The Magpies are actively exploring a deal for the Chelsea forward, with intent of an offer worth around £60 million. However, Chelsea are demanding closer to £80 million - and are understood to be encouraging rival interest to strengthen their hand. Bayern Munich are one of the teams in the picture.
Still, Newcastle’s interest is not speculative. The club see Jackson as a suitable fit stylistically to potentially fill the Isak void - and his arrival could unlock the deal that sends their current star striker to Anfield.
Jackson is not the only name in play. Interest in Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has not gone away, though prising him away remains tricky.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are also tracking Brentford’s Yoane Wissa.
Sources indicate that rather than seeing him as a replacement for Isak, it is thought he would be more in line with replacing Callum Wilson - who has joined West Ham United.