Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel has not been afraid to be critical on a number of topics at the club, however one player has frequently been called out by him.
Nicolas Jackson has frequently been in the firing line for Mikel, with many believing this is led by the fact the Blues had not completed the signing of Victor Osimhen.
Mikel was scathing of Jackson during the Club World Cup, when he was sent off against Flamengo and then failed to return to the starting side after that game.
Now, Enzo Maresca has confirmed Jackson is likely to leave before the transfer window closes. The Blues are heading in a direction where Liam Delap and Joao Pedro are the options up front.
John Obi Mikel looks on during Day 1 - Champions Festival - UEFA Champions League Final 2025
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John Obi Mikel makes U-Turn on Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson
Despite frequently describing the Senegal international as not good enough to start for Chelsea, it seems that Mikel has had a change of heart upon the news of his imminent departure.
He now believes that he still thinks the forward has a part to play in Chelsea’s upcoming season.
He said: “I hope he stays because I still think he has a massive part to play this season. He’s a fantastic player, the qualities and what he brings to this football club. I think we need that.”
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Mikel had fired a warning to the Chelsea owners ahead of the transfer window, and is pleased in general with the transfer activity that has happened at Stamford Bridge.
Nicolas Jackson looks on ahead of FIFA Club World Cup Final Paris Saint-Germain vs Chelsea FC
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Strong interest in Nicolas Jackson
Aston Villa are very keen on a deal for Jackson, and have the advantage of a manager who has previously worked with the striker to help them get over the line.
Jackson would love to play for Unai Emery again after their spell at Villarreal together, however they are not the only side pushing to complete a big late signing this summer.
Newcastle are keen on Jackson, however have already seen a number of their transfer targets head to other clubs this summer.
There is also interest from around Europe. Napoli and Bayern Munich have also registered interest in the striker, with the Blues likely to command a large fee for the deal.