Former Premier League striker and Sky Sports pundit Kevin Campbell has backed Newcastle United in their pursuit of Villarreal winger Nicolas Jackson.

The Lowdown: Newcastle interest

As per The Daily Mail, the St. James' Park outfit are just one of a number of clubs in the Premier League eyeing a potential move for Jackson in the January transfer window.

They have been following his progress in recent months, but will face competition from both Everton and Aston Villa for his signature, as well as FC Barcelona.

Jackson's contract at Villarreal runs out in the summer, meaning that he could be sold for a cut-price in January, at the risk of the Yellow Submarine losing him on a free transfer.

The Latest: Campbell backs move

Speaking to Football Insider, Campbell has claimed that adding a player of Jackson's 'quality' in January 'would be great' for Eddie Howe's side, as it would strengthen their chances of finishing in the top four come the end of the season:

“Newcastle could be big players in the market place come January.

“Now they find themselves in the top four, this is the time to strengthen. That would be the right way to think.

“Adding a player of quality to your squad like Nicholas Jackson would be great. It would be a smart move. It is essential to add goals to your squad and he would do that.

“I’m sure he will be one of many names floating around. Newcastle have been taking their time with transfers. The key is to get it right.”

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The Verdict: Get it done

Jackson would certainly give Howe another quality option in his forward line, should the Magpies be able to get a deal done.

Capable of playing on the wing, the 21-year-old has also impressed in a centre-forward position, as he has not missed a single match yet so far this term, scoring three goals and making two assists (Transfermarkt).

Lauded as a player with ‘bags of potential‘ by journalist Ashley Preece, Jackson received his first call-up to the Senegal national team in September, and was an unused substitute in international friendlies against Bolivia and Iran (Transfermarkt).

He will be hoping to get his first caps during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, so the Toon Army should be looking to keep tabs on his performances throughout the tournament.