Fakayejo Paul
London, UK – Nicolas Jackson’s future at Chelsea is increasingly uncertain as the club continues its aggressive summer clear-out.
The Senegalese striker is considered a prime candidate for a departure, with a number of clubs both in the Premier League and abroad reportedly considering a move for the 24-year-old.
Jackson’s potential exit is a part of Chelsea’s significant squad overhaul this summer, which has seen the club focus heavily on both incoming and outgoing transfers to comply with financial fair play regulations.
The Blues have already completed or agreed on sales totaling over £200 million, with an additional £100-150 million in sales expected before the transfer window closes.
Jackson, who was signed from Villarreal for £32 million in 2023, is not guaranteed a starting spot under new manager Enzo Maresca, especially with the arrivals of other forwards like João Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens.
The club also has other attacking options, and with the potential arrivals of Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho, competition for places is fierce.
A number of clubs have been linked with Jackson, including:
- Newcastle United: The Magpies are in the market for a striker and have reportedly made preliminary contact with Chelsea, although they are also pursuing Benjamin Šeško.
- Manchester United: The Red Devils have long been linked with Jackson, though recent reports suggest they may have been put off by Chelsea’s high valuation of £80-100 million.
- Aston Villa: Manager Unai Emery, who worked with Jackson at Villarreal, is reportedly keen on a reunion, but a move would likely hinge on the sale of Ollie Watkins.
- Juventus: The Italian giants could be candidates for Jackson’s signature if they can first sell Dusan Vlahovic.
- Atlético Madrid: Diego Simeone’s side have reportedly “set their sights” on the forward.
- Galatasaray and Real Madrid: Both clubs have been mentioned as potential suitors, with Real Madrid’s interest in particular being noted by several sources.
Chelsea are under no pressure to sell Jackson, given he has eight years remaining on his contract, but they are open to a deal if a suitable offer that meets their high valuation is received.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the club looks to offload more players and Jackson’s future becomes clearer.