Arsenal could look to complete a shock move to sign Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson before the transfer window ends, according to reports - with an injury to star man Kai Havertz thrusting them into rapid-fire action before the deadline in just under two weeks' time.
Havertz has been Arsenal's main striker for the past two seasons, but having spent time on the sidelines in the second half of last season, it made sporting director Andrea Berta aware that another striker was needed alongside him. However, after a fresh injury for the former Bayer Leverkusen star, they'll need to buy yet again - seeing Jackson touted for a move north of the capital.
Report: Arsenal 'Eyeing Move' for Nicolas Jackson After Kai Havertz Injury
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The report by The Sun states that with Havertz being out for an 'unspecified' period of time, that has left Viktor Gyokeres as Arsenal's only recognised striker. As a result, Mikel Arteta could opt for a new striker to cover for the German's absence and to put pressure on the Swede. If he does, the report states that Jackson could be an option for the Gunners after his decent run of form at Stamford Bridge over the past two seasons.
The news of Havertz's injury has 'increased the likelihood' that Arsenal will head back into the market before the transfer window shuts, despite being close to sealing a move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze after thwarting north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday evening - and another London arrival could be in place if they land Jackson from Chelsea.
Interestingly, the Gunners have already signed Noni Madueke and Kepa Arrizabalaga from the Blues this summer for a combined £57million, whilst Petr Cech, William Gallas, Willian, Jorginho, Lassana Diarra and even Havertz himself have made the switch to the Gunners from west London in the past - and so this deal would not be alien to many.
Arsenal are under pressure to sign another forward despite spending over £200million on players this summer, and Jackson could become a proper target after Chelsea strengthened their frontline with the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro already in the earlier stages of the window.
Jackson has proved to be a dependable member of Chelsea's squad since he joined, scoring 30 goals in 81 games for the Blues, including 24 in 65 Premier League games - but the arrivals of Delap and Pedro may have punted the 24-year-old further down the pecking order in the capital and he could leave as a result.
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