Nicolas Jackson has been omitted from the Chelsea squad to face Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge on Friday night. The 24-year-old striker, who has been heavily linked with a move this summer, has not been selected by Enzo Maresca to play the first of two pre-season friendlies.
Jackson, who recently signed a long-term contract extension in west London, featured 30 times in the Premier League last season, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists. Playing a key role in Maresca's side, he helped Chelsea finish fourth and qualify for the Champions League.
The Senegal international enjoyed a great start to the campaign, netting all but one of his goals before the turn of the year. Jackson couldn't find his feet in the final third following his return from a hamstring injury in April, but he still managed to show his quality.
According to the MailOnline, the striker has told Chelsea that he wants to explore his options this summer. The report claims that the west Londoners are working hard to help him resolve his future, and they're already in talks with multiple suitors.
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Speaking to reporters at Cobham training ground on Thursday, Maresca provided an update on Jackson's future. The Chelsea boss said: "Nico is okay. I think as I just said, when the transfer window is open – unfortunately, or fortunately – anything can happen.
"This also involves Nico’s situation," added Maresca. "At the moment we also have had two strikers arrive – Joao [Pedro] and Liam [Delap] – so we’ll see what happens."
At the end of July, Jackson was quizzed on his future at Stamford Bridge. Speaking to DSports TV, as quoted by the Metro, he said: "Competition? I have no competition.
Nicolas Jackson #15 of Chelsea FC walks downfield with his winners medal after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Nicolas Jackson after the Club World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium (Image: Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
"We’re all here to help the club. Everyone has their role to play. I’m on a mission. It’s up to the coach to make his choices. I focus solely on my work."
Jackson added: "I’m a Chelsea player. The future belongs to God. If there are any changes, you’ll know. For now, I’m focused on my preparation."
This is a developing news story that will be updated with relevant information as we get it. More to follow...
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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