Aston Villa have reportedly made contact with Chelsea for Christopher Nkunku, and they are said to still retain interest in Nicolas Jackson.
The Blues enjoyed a comfortable 5-1 victory against West Ham United on Friday afternoon, with newcomer Joao Pedro netting against the Hammers.
Head coach Enzo Maresca will be pleased that five different players scored in that win, and his side's strong performance in the final third could lead to exits for attackers currently out of favour.
Christopher Nkunku failed to make the substitute's bench in each of the Blues' two Premier League games of 2025-26, and his lack of minutes on the pitch has led to speculation that he could leave this summer.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Villa have made contact with Chelsea for Nkunku and are still keen on Jackson, and such moves could scupper Newcastle United's plans to sign a forward this summer.
Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku pictured in April 2025
Why Chelsea must be wary about selling to Aston Villa or Newcastle United
Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League last term with 69 points, claiming the second last Champions League qualification spot.
Newcastle and Aston Villa finished fifth and sixth respectively, with both sides accumulating 66 points.
While the Blues have signed a number of players this summer, they must be careful about strengthening their rivals, especially as they are by no means certain to qualify for a place amongst Europe's elite this term.
Bayern Munich have been touted as a potential destination for Jackson, while RB Leipzig are thought to be interested in Nkunku, so perhaps selling abroad would be the best approach for Chelsea.
Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson pictured on July 8, 2025
How Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson could impact Alexander Isak deal
Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has been subject of an approach from Liverpool, and the Swede has refused to take part in training in an attempt to force through a move to Anfield.
The Magpies would have to secure a replacement before allowing their talisman to leave, and the signing of Jackson could help facilitate a deal to the Reds.
If Villa were to bring both Jackson and Nkunku to the club, then Newcastle's options for reinforcements would thin further.
The Magpies have been linked with Villa striker Ollie Watkins, and the English forward could push for a transfer if he was forced to compete for the starting nine spot at his current club.
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