Chelsea are linked with a transfer move for Newcastle star Alexander Isak. However, the deal would depend on one condition out of their control (for the most part...)
Chelsea have had a mixed start to life under Enzo Maresca. When the Italian coach first joined, little was expected of him considering his previous season was in the Championship. However, he has overall achieved over the odds so far.
In the middle of February, Chelsea sit sixth in the Premier League table. They are certainly within touching distance of the Champions League, a competition in which they have a great history.
Of the teams which Chelsea are competing with for the Champions League spot, they will have a keen eye on Newcastle United. However, it could be for their selfish gain for the most part.
Chelsea learn the conditions to sign £83.3m Arsenal transfer target
According to a report from Spanish outlet Sport, Chelsea are one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Alexander Isak. They would face competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, as well as Barcelona. For different reasons, the Blues have a rivalry with all three teams.
What's more, Chelsea knows the conditions which must be met for them to sign Alexander Isak. Indeed, the Magpies would let their star player leave for £83.3m, on the condition that they don't qualify for the Champions League.
Therefore, Chelsea now have another incentive to qualify for the Champions League, at Newcastle United's expense. Failing to do so would not only be a financial disappointment for Chelsea, but it would also prevent them from trying to sign Alexander Isak.
Without a doubt, Alexander Isak is one of the best strikers in the Premier League, perhaps even the world. The Swedish striker has it all going for him, boasting a great dribbling ability, physical presence and the knack to create a goal from nothing.
Truth be told, Chelsea has been without a great striker since Diego Costa left the club. They have tried many different options ,including Alvaro Morata, Romelu Lukaku and Nicolas Jackson but all options have left a bit to be desired.
Signing Alexander Isak won't be an easy task, even if Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League. The complete striker is the type of player that clubs will go all-out to sign. Indeed, he is the missing piece to success for many clubs, Chelsea included.