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Chelsea manger Enzo Maresca isn't sure about striker Nicolas Jackson's departure from the club in the ongoing summer transfer window. The 24-year-old Senegalese forward has caught the eyes of Newcastle United, especially after Manchester United hindered their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. Should a transfer materialise, Chelsea are expected to demand at least twice the £32 million they paid Villarreal for Jackson in 2023. His involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup was limited following a red card against Flamengo, and he was left out of the final against Paris Saint-Germain, with new signings Joao Pedro and Liam Delap leading the line instead.
During the interview with BBC Sport, Maresca said, "Anything can happen. When the transfer window is open, unfortunately or fortunately, anything can happen. This also involves Nico's situation." He further mentioned that two new strikers have joined the club, namely Joao Pedro and Liam Delap. Since joining Chelsea before the 2023-24 season, Nicolas Jackson scored 24 goals and provided 10 assists across 65 Premier League appearances. He averages a goal every 210 minutes in the league and boasts a conversion rate of 15.4%.
Nicolas Jackson signed 9-year contract with Chelsea last year
Last year, the 24-year-old striker signed a nine-year contract with Chelsea. This long-term commitment defines the club's belief in the overall future and potential of Jackson, along with his impact on the team. However, with ongoing transfer rumours, it’s uncertain how this will influence any possible departure from Stamford Bridge during the current summer window. Since Joao Pedro and Liam Delap are expected to receive more playing time, Jackson appears to be slipping down the pecking order, making a move away increasingly likely.
Now, since Jackson exit is quite uncertain, it is expected to play at least one match with Chelsea, which is going to play two pre-season matches. Meanwhile, Aston Villa is keeping an eye on the situation, but they are lacking finances to meet Chelsea’s valuation for the player, who previously played under Unai Emery.
