Nicolas Jackson rejects Serie A moves, prioritises Premier League stay

Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson has turned down approaches from Napoli and AC Milan as he targets a continued stay in the Premier League, with Manchester United now monitoring his situation closely.

The Senegal international has found himself at a crossroads this summer following a season in which he produced moments of promise but struggled to fully convince.

Chelsea’s recent attacking reinforcements, including the signings of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, have further cast doubt over Jackson’s place under head coach Enzo Maresca.

Although Jackson has not formally been placed on the transfer list, Chelsea are open to offers in the region of £80 million.

The 24-year-old still has eight years remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge, having signed a long-term contract upon joining from Villarreal in 2023.

According to sources close to the player, Jackson is intent on remaining in England and has already turned down interest from Serie A.

Both Napoli and Milan had made enquiries earlier in the window but stepped away after being informed of the striker’s preference to stay in the Premier League.

Manchester United are among the clubs assessing a possible move, with early talks reportedly taking place between Jackson’s camp and officials at Old Trafford.

Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are also keeping tabs, with the Spaniard maintaining a good relationship with the player from their time together at Villarreal.

Despite a frustrating end to the campaign, which saw Jackson miss out on Chelsea’s starting XI in the Club World Cup final and pick up two red cards in his last five appearances, he still finished the season with 13 goals and six assists.

Trending

‘I must find a solution’ – Max Allegri responds to Juventus’ UCL defeat against Benfica

Across all competitions, he contributed 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances since arriving from La Liga. The season ended with the Blues finishing fourth.

Jackson is currently on holiday in Senegal but is expected to make a decision on his future before the end of the month. Those close to the situation believe further movement could occur soon, especially with more signings anticipated at Chelsea.