Chelsea have slapped a valuation of between £80 million and £100 million on Nicolas Jackson amid growing interest from Manchester United and other clubs across Europe and Saudi Arabia.
The 24-year-old Senegal international is not on the transfer list, and the Blues are under no obligation to sell, especially given that Jackson still has eight years remaining on his contract.
However, United are reportedly exploring a surprise move for the forward, who registered 34 goal contributions over the last two Premier League seasons.
In any potential negotiations, Chelsea are likely to use Liverpool’s £79 million deal for Hugo Ekitike as a benchmark.
Club sources believe Jackson’s record surpasses Ekitike’s, pointing to his output in a more competitive league.
Ekitike, who featured for Eintracht Frankfurt, delivered 29 contributions in the Bundesliga last season.
Despite his performances, Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain.
His limited involvement during Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph, where he was overshadowed by new arrivals Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, has raised questions about his role in the upcoming campaign.
Chelsea’s transfer strategy is contingent on player departures. Although they aim to start the season with three quality No. 9 options, if Jackson leaves, the club may pivot to signing a wide player, with Pedro Neto seen as a versatile option capable of playing centrally.
