August 22, 2025. There is drama going on with turn of events at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson set for exit as Premier League clubs circle. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca stated that striker Nicolas Jackson will be set to leave out of the roster for Saturday’s match against West Ham United. This is because of significant interest from competing Premier League sides and European heavyweights.
Jackson is a 24 year old Senegal international who moved to Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 for around £30 million. He is now worth around £60 million according to Chelsea. Chelsea are happy to consider both permanent and loan options. The loan must include a significant fee and an obligation to buy. This is in order to sell off Jackson before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Jackson’s Chelsea Journey
Nicolas Jackson’s time at Chelsea has been inconsistent. He has hit the back of the net 30 times, and added dozen assists in 81 appearances in two seasons. While he helped Chelsea win the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup, he faced criticism from fans and analysts for missed clear chances.
Clubs in the Race
Aston Villa: Everyone knows the head coach, Unai Emery, has worked before with Jackson at Villarreal. Moreover, he is keen to recruit Jackson to the club, looking at how to develop something into a deal. Villa wants to deal but finances are going to be tricky with the Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Newcastle United: The Magpies have contacted Chelsea as they are looking for attacking reinvigoration. This is especially with Alexander Isak’s own future uncertain. Newcastle likes Jackson for his playing style, which seems to suit Eddie Howe’s system.
Bayern Munich: The Germans seem to be interested in Jackson as well, adding a touch of international pizzazz to the rumour mill.
Manager’s Statement
Enzo Maresca stated, “He is available but he is not going to be part of the squad because we have two strikers, two players in that position, and also we know that something can happen before the transfer window closes”. Maresca emphasized that both Jackson and Christopher Nkunku—who is also linked with a move—would be “happier” if they found new clubs.
Chelsea’s Strategy
Chelsea’s willingness to sell Jackson follows the signings of João Pedro (£60 million from Brighton) and Liam Delap (£30 million from Ipswich Town), which pushed the Senegalese forward down the pecking order. The club’s strategy of inflating player values—having bought Jackson for £30 million and now demanding double—may test the market’s appetite.
What’s Next?
As the transfer window fast approaches its conclusion in less than two weeks. Jackson’s future has to be in resolvable in the next few days. One contingent of Jackson’s future could be dependent on how the situation regarding Alexander Isak at Newcastle resolves.
As this saga continues, Chelsea fans continue to sit and watch as developments are in motion. While interested parties are weighing the monetary and tactical considerations of signing the striker.