Chelsea could cash in on striker Nicolas Jackson this summer, with the club reportedly setting a price tag of £50m as interest grows across Europe and the Premier League. The Senegal international netted 17 goals in all competitions during his debut season after a £32m move from Villarreal in 2023, but his form dropped significantly in the second half of the last campaign.
Inconsistent finishing and disciplinary issues, including two red cards in his final five appearances, have cast doubt over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge. His sending-off in Chelsea’s Club World Cup defeat to Flamengo only added to the concern. Jackson was benched for that match, as new £30m signing Liam Delap made his first start under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
While former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel previously backed Jackson to remain the starting striker, Maresca’s decision to promote Delap suggests a shift in plans. Reports now indicate Juventus have already opened talks with Chelsea, although the Italian giants may walk away if the Blues don’t lower their current valuation.
Another unnamed Premier League side has reportedly entered the race for Jackson, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. Chelsea’s high asking price may still be a stumbling block, but there’s belief that the 24-year-old has significant room for development.
Jackson has his defenders, though. Former Spurs boss Tim Sherwood argues that his off-the-ball movement and physical presence make him a crucial outlet in Chelsea’s system. According to Sherwood, “he stretches defences, creates space, and holds the ball up,” offering something that Chelsea’s other attackers don’t replicate.
Flamengo coach Filipe Luis, who played for Chelsea in the 2014–15 title-winning season, also praised Jackson despite the red card incident. “He’s young, talented, and has what it takes to become one of the world’s top strikers,” he said after the match, noting that setbacks like these are part of the learning curve.
As Chelsea look to streamline their squad under Maresca, Jackson’s future may hinge on whether any suitor meets the valuation or if the club ultimately sees the long-term potential that others still believe he has.