In a surprising twist, Manchester United have reportedly shown a strong interest in signing Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson during the upcoming transfer window. The 23-year-old Senegal international, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 for a fee of around £32 million, has been a regular presence in Chelsea’s starting lineup under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Jackson has made 78 appearances for the Blues and netted 30 goals, including a decisive strike in Chelsea’s recent Conference League final victory, underlining his importance to the squad. However, despite these contributions, Jackson’s position at the club could soon be under threat.
Chelsea’s recent acquisition of Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who was also a target for Manchester United, has raised questions about Jackson’s long-term role at Stamford Bridge. Additionally, Chelsea’s reported interest in Hugo Ekitike suggests that they are not yet satisfied with their current attacking options. With Delap and potentially Ekitike in the mix, Jackson could find himself slipping down the pecking order, prompting speculation about a possible summer exit. Manchester United, seeking to reinforce their struggling frontline, have reportedly approached Chelsea regarding Jackson’s availability.
The Red Devils are still exploring options, having been linked to Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, but Jackson’s athletic profile appears to have caught the attention of United’s technical director Jason Wilcox.
United’s interest in Jackson stems from their ongoing issues in attack. Both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have failed to consistently deliver goals, and the club is eager to add a new dimension to their forward line. Jackson, known for his movement, pace, and ability to stretch defences, could complement the potential arrival of Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, who is also expected to join United.
However, there are doubts over Jackson’s finishing ability, with some critics questioning whether he can consistently deliver goals at the highest level – a concern United are reportedly aware of as they weigh up their options.
On Chelsea’s side, the club appears reluctant to part ways with Jackson. The striker recently signed a contract extension that runs until 2033, signalling Chelsea’s belief in his potential and value to their long-term project.
With Jackson tied down on a lengthy deal, Chelsea hold the upper hand in any negotiations, and they are not under financial pressure to sell. This could make any deal difficult for United to finalise, especially if Chelsea view Jackson as a key figure in their future plans.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s interest in Nicolas Jackson has emerged as a surprising development in the summer transfer market. While Chelsea currently seem unwilling to let go of the Senegalese striker, the ongoing shake-up in their squad – highlighted by the arrival of Delap and their pursuit of Ekitike – could eventually shift the situation.
For now, though, Jackson remains a central figure in Chelsea’s squad, and any transfer would likely require a significant offer to tempt the Blues into reconsidering. This situation is certainly one to watch closely as the summer window unfolds.
