Carlisle United have been heavily linked with Dundee striker Alex Jakubiak, according to reports from the Daily Record.
Jakubiak is set to become a free agent this summer, with both the club and player deciding to part ways. The 26-year-old is coming off a solid season and will no doubt receive plenty of interest in the transfer window.
This was the Scotsman’s third season with Dundee, and by far his best, after scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 30 matches for the Dee. Dundee saw themselves gain promotion back into the Scottish Premiership after winning the Championship this season, a quick return having been relegated to the second tier the season prior.
Carlisle’s season was also marked with success, gaining their promotion back into League One for the first time in nine years. Unlike Dundee, the Cumbrians did it the hard way, gaining promotion via the play-offs by beating Stockport County 5-4 on penalties at Wembley. Under the influence of Paul Simpson, who has completely turned the club around in the last year, Carlisle will be looking to bring a number of new names to Brunton Park this summer.
Who Else Has Carlisle Signed From Scotland?
This is not the first time in which the Cumbrians have raided the border for talent. Cumbrian hero Owen Moxon joined the Blues from Annan Athletic last summer, and enjoyed an incredible season under Simpson. Moxon, who was a part-time delivery driver during his time at Annan, won the Player of the Season award at Carlisle as well as being nominated for the League Two Player of the Year and making the League Two Team of the Season.
Outgoing striker Kristian Dennis is another example of a Scottish League player who was revolutionised under Simpson. Carlisle signed Dennis from St. Mirren, where he scored just six goals in 40 appearances. Under Simpson, the 33-year-old bagged 20 goals in the 2022/23 season, the first Carlisle player to do so since Karl Hawley in 2005/06. With Dennis’ transfer to Tranmere confirmed, Jakubiak could be the perfect replacement.
Who is Alex Jakubiak?
The 26-year-old came through the ranks at then-Premier League side Watford. Vastly impressive in the various youth teams, Jakubiak would go on to make just one senior appearance at Vicarage Road. He spent the majority of his time with the Hornets out on loan, with spells at Braintree Town, Oxford United, Dagenham and Redbridge, Fleetwood Town, Wycombe Wanderers, Falkirk, Bristol Rovers, Gillingham and finally St. Mirren. Gaining experience in both the English and Scottish leagues, one of Jakubiak’s greatest strengths is his pace and ability to beat the man. He can also play across the front three, which would fit perfectly in Simpson’s system.
Writer’s View
With the departure of Dennis to Tranmere confirmed earlier this week, there is a vacant spot up top in Carlisle’s team. Although he won’t necessarily be a starter, Jakubiak would fight for his place in the squad. Due to the fact, he can also play on the wing, the Scotsman will fit almost perfectly into Simpson’s attacking tactics. The addition of Jakubiak will help the Cumbrians challenge in League One next season, where survival will be their first aim.
