Chelsea are preparing to end their association with Senegalese forward Nicolas Jackson, whose future at Stamford Bridge has been thrown into uncertainty during the current transfer window.
The 23-year-old has grown increasingly unsettled in recent weeks, openly expressing his dissatisfaction with life at the club. Matters came to a head when Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that Jackson no longer features in his plans for the coming season, signalling that an exit was now inevitable.
Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal, has already begun training away from the first-team squad as discussions over his departure advance. Both player and club appear to agree that a separation is the most suitable outcome.
Chelsea have placed a price tag of between £50m and £65m on the striker, making clear that any suitor will need to meet their valuation before negotiations can progress.
Interest in Jackson’s services is already strong across Europe. Newcastle United are understood to be leading the pursuit, with manager Eddie Howe keen to add a forward of Jackson’s profile to his squad.
The Magpies, who are aiming to strengthen their attacking options, are believed to be closely monitoring the situation.
AC Milan are also keeping watch, with the Italian giants weighing up the possibility of a move should Chelsea’s asking price be deemed manageable.
Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, remain a potential destination, but their level of interest depends heavily on the outcome of Richarlison’s future in north London.
The impasse marks a sharp turn in fortunes for Jackson, who arrived at Chelsea with high expectations following an impressive spell in La Liga.
However, inconsistency and difficulties in adapting to Premier League football have seen his role diminish over time, culminating in Maresca’s decision to exclude him from his long-term plans.
For Chelsea, parting ways with Jackson represents another step in the club’s continuing overhaul under Maresca. The Blues remain committed to reshaping their squad during the transfer window, and Jackson’s departure would not only free up space in attack but also generate significant funds to reinvest.
As negotiations continue, Jackson’s next move could become one of the defining stories of the summer transfer market. With several top European clubs circling, the striker’s future is likely to be resolved in the coming weeks, but the terms will depend on whether any club is willing to meet Chelsea’s valuation.
The situation encapsulates the turbulence surrounding Chelsea’s summer business, with the club actively balancing departures and arrivals in an attempt to build a squad capable of challenging for honours again. For Jackson, however, the conclusion is clear: his chapter in west London is drawing to a close.
