Nicolas Jackson has emerged as an option for Atletico Madrid as uncertainty continues to surround Julian Alvarez’s future in Spain.
The Chelsea striker is being considered by Diego Simeone’s side as they look to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes.
Spanish outlet AS reports there are currently no advanced negotiations for Jackson, but Atletico sporting director Mateu Alemany wants to add another forward.
That search could become even more important if Alvarez eventually gets his desired move away from Madrid.
🚨🔵 Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Tosin Adarabioyo are not in Chelsea squad today.
All of them could still leave Chelsea before the end of the transfer window. pic.twitter.com/lqEIB2dyaC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 15, 2026
Nicolas Jackson could enter Julian Alvarez transfer domino
Alvarez has spent much of the summer pushing for a departure from Atletico.
AS reports the Argentina international remains determined to leave despite Atletico refusing to negotiate and maintaining publicly that he is not for sale. Barcelona have previously made a €100million move, while Atletico rejected even the prospect of significantly larger offers.
Jackson could offer them a ready-made La Liga replacement if that position eventually changes.
The 25-year-old already knows Spanish football after his spell with Villarreal and can operate centrally or from wider attacking positions.
He also returned from his Bayern Munich loan this summer with his Chelsea future uncertain.
The Blues are understood to value Jackson at around £60m, while Tottenham and Aston Villa have also monitored his situation.
Chelsea selection clue leaves Jackson future uncertain
Jackson’s position has become even more intriguing after Xabi Alonso left him out of Chelsea’s final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad.
Joao Pedro instead led the attack and scored twice in a 3-1 victory at Stamford Bridge, finishing pre-season with seven goals.
Chelsea are already making difficult decisions elsewhere in Alonso’s squad, with Benoit Badiashile set for a Napoli medical as the Blues accelerate their defensive clearout.
Jackson could soon become the major decision in attack.
Atletico’s interest remains preliminary and Alvarez is still officially part of Simeone’s plans.
But if the Argentine’s transfer saga suddenly moves, Chelsea may find themselves holding a £60m striker who fits an increasingly obvious vacancy in Madrid.
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