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Nicolas Jackson nears Chelsea exit amid growing transfer interest
19th August, 2026 11:14 AM
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson’s long-term future at Chelsea and Stamford Bridge appears to be in doubt, with a growing number of suitors lining up for the Senegal national team attacker.
Serie A giants Napoli are the latest team to make an inquiry about the Chelsea star in their search for a new striker, according to Sky Sports.
The Italian club had previously been linked with moves for Arsenal forwards Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli but have now widened their search, with the Senegalese forward high on their radar. Napoli are also understood to be monitoring Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee.
Jackson joined fellow players Liam Delap and Tosin Adarabioyo in being left out of Xabi Alonso’s squad for Chelsea’s final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad on August 15, 2026, fueling speculation of a possible departures before the transfer window closes.
Chelsea went on to win the match 3–1, with goals from new signing Morgan Rogers and a brace from João Pedro.
The striker has been the subject of intense transfer interest across Europe. Atlético Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur have both been linked with the forward, who spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich. However, Chelsea’s Ksh10.51 billion valuation has so far proved to be a major stumbling block for prospective buyers.
Villa joins possible Jackson suitors list
Meanwhile, Premier League side Aston Villa have joined the race for Jackson’s signature. With England striker Ollie Watkins linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, Unai Emery’s side are mulling over a swoop for the Chelsea attacker, though Villa are only expected to formalize their interest if Watkins accepts the big-money offer from the Gulf nation.
With no European football this campaign, new boss Xabi Alonso is keen to significantly reduce his squad that so far comprises over 40 players, with a number of them either available for sale or on loan. Chelsea needs to offload 16 players by the start of September, 2026.
Having deployed as many as 21 substitutes in their 1-0 defeat by Juventus in Hong Kong, Alonso has now made up his mind, and exit could now dominate their next phase of transfer business after signing more than ten players in the summer.
