Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has suggested that Nicolas Jackson could leave Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window.
Jackson has enjoyed a solid opening two seasons in West London, contributing 30 goals and 12 assists from his 81 appearances in all competitions.
Meanwhile, Maresca has consistently spoken highly of the 24-year-old, who he feels that his side missed when he spent two months on the sidelines last season.
However, during the latter stages of the Club World Cup, new additions Liam Delap and Joao Pedro starred as the Blues overcame Palmeiras, Fluminense and Paris Saint-Germain.
As such, the perception is that Jackson has dropped down to third in the pecking order for the number nine role. Maresca has previously stated that is the only position that he views as suitable for the Senegal international.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca pictured on June 28, 2025
Maresca speaks on Jackson future
On Thursday morning, Maresca held a press conference, just days after his players commenced pre-season after a three-week break on the back of their Club World Cup success.
Jackson's future was a natural topic of conversation and Maresca confirmed reports which have suggested that the striker could be sold are true.
The Italian said, as quoted by The Standard: "Nico is okay. He’s okay. When the transfer window is open, unfortunately or fortunately, anything can happen.
“This also involves Nico’s situation. At the moment we also had two strikers arrive, both of them in the USA, Joao and Liam. So we will see what happens.”
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson in action on April 20, 2025
What could happen next with Jackson?
Chelsea will play their only two pre-season friendlies later this week when they face Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan on Friday and Sunday respectively.
Jackson is currently expected to play a part in at least one of those matches with the likelihood being that they will play no more than 45 minutes each.
Nevertheless, much could depend on whether there are any developments with the future of Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak, who has been heavily linked with Liverpool.
The Magpies are allegedly contemplating whether to make contact with Chelsea regarding a potential deal for Jackson, the Blues likely to demand in excess of £70m.
Aston Villa are also monitoring the situation, yet they are not in a position where they can meet Chelsea's asking price for a player who has previously worked under Unai Emery.
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