TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson is concerned about his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues confirmed the arrival of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town on Wednesday after triggering his £30 million release clause.
It has been confirmed that the former Manchester City striker will wear the number nine shirt at Chelsea, and he is expected to fight for a place with Jackson.
But, the Senegal international is worried after finding out what Chelsea are planning to do now.
Nicolas Jackson is concerned as Chelsea eye move for three more strikers after Liam Delap
TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, understands that Nicolas Jackson has real concerns about his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
Jackson has seen Delap come in this week, but Chelsea are also looking at additional options to strengthen the top end of their pitch.
Enzo Maresca’s side have considered bringing in Emanuel Emegha from sister club Strasbourg, whilst they have also had discussions about signing Hugo Ekitike – although they have made it clear they won’t pay his current €100 million asking price.
We are told Porto’s Samu Aghehowa also remains a player that Chelsea fully appreciate.
Whilst Jackson’s camp insist he is fully committed to fighting for his place and he believes he is the club’s best option, the forward has concerns about the club’s belief that they need more striking power.
The 23-year-old has a long-term contract until 2033, but we understand there are some rivals keeping tabs on his situation. However, as things stand, no contact has yet been made.
Bailey told TBR: “Jackson had a good season last term, but it wasn’t great. Chelsea want to keep him, but they want him to be one of their options, rather than the main man.
“Chelsea have no plans to sell, but let’s see how Jackson reacts – I am told he has some concerns, and if they were to further add to the pool with someone like Ekitike or Samu, then those concerns would increase. Jackson is one to keep an eye on.”
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Nicolas Jackson vs Liam Delap vs Emanuel Emegha vs Hugo Ekitike vs Samu Aghehowa stats compared
Maresca has Jackson and Delap at his disposal at Chelsea, but he is open to adding another striker to his squad in the coming weeks.
The Blues are currently considering three options, but how do their numbers in 2024/25 fare when compared against Delap and Jackson?
Games Goals Assists Minutes per goal or assist
Nicolas Jackson 34 13 5 135.38
Liam Delap 40 12 2 190.64
Emanuel Emegha 29 14 3 141.64
Hugo Ekitike 48 22 12 107.17
Samu Aghehowa 42 25 3 113.39
The three strikers Chelsea are looking at all scored more goals than Jackson and Delap did in the 2024/25 season.
Ekitike is the best name on the list, but whether Frankfurt and Chelsea can reach an agreement on a fee remains to be seen.