Chelsea Consider Shock Nicolas Jackson Sale After Madueke Exit in Ruthless Summer Overhaul
Chelsea’s summer of surprises looks set to continue, with reports now suggesting that Nicolas Jackson could be the next high-profile forward to leave Stamford Bridge, just two years after joining from Villarreal.
The speculation comes just days after Chelsea agreed to sell Noni Madueke to Arsenal in a deal worth over £50million, as part of what appears to be a calculated and ruthless squad reshuffle under Enzo Maresca.
With Chelsea having already cashed in on Madueke — despite the winger playing a vital role in their top-four finish and Conference League triumph — attention is now turning to Jackson’s future. And according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the 24-year-old is attracting serious interest, including from within the Premier League.
“Nicolas Jackson has chances to leave Chelsea this summer,” Romano posted on X. “AC Milan asked for Jackson but Chelsea asking price is still too high. Premier League clubs are also keen and informed.”
Ruthless from Maresca
This latest twist follows Maresca’s no-nonsense message on players’ commitment levels. Speaking after Madueke’s transfer saga emerged, the Chelsea boss stated:
“If a player doesn’t want to be here, he is free to leave.”
It’s a clear reflection of the mindset being implemented at Cobham: no passengers, no hesitation, and no compromise when it comes to building a squad in Maresca’s image.
Jackson’s potential departure would be another major call, especially considering he bagged 13 goals in his debut season. While his form fluctuated — with a strong start giving way to inconsistency and disciplinary issues, including two red cards — Jackson still showed flashes of his potential as a dynamic forward with strong movement and link-up play.
Confusing Timing Amid a Reinforced Attack
What makes the situation particularly puzzling is that Chelsea just reinforced their attack, bringing in Joao Pedro from Brighton and Liam Delap from Manchester City. While both players are talented and fit the club’s long-term strategy, neither has Jackson’s level of top-flight or European experience.
Selling Jackson now — particularly to a domestic rival — raises questions over Chelsea’s direction in the No.9 position. Marc Guiu is still adapting, and Christopher Nkunku has only just started stringing minutes together after a season hampered by injuries.
And with Maresca missing out on top targets like Mohammed Kudus, and interest ongoing in players like Malick Fofana and Alejandro Garnacho, it’s unclear who would step up should Jackson depart.
Club Looking to Profit Again?
Jackson was signed for just under £32million in 2023. Reports suggest Chelsea are demanding over £50million to sell him this summer — yet another sign the club is eager to capitalise on rising valuations and balance their spending spree with smart exits.
It mirrors the Madueke situation. The England winger was sold for more than £50million after being signed for around £30million from PSV, again netting Chelsea a sizable profit. While such moves make sense on paper, there’s growing concern among fans that talented players are being moved on too quickly in a constant churn of incomings and outgoings.
What Next?
Whether Jackson stays or leaves may come down to the offers on the table. AC Milan are said to be interested but balked at the asking price, while unnamed Premier League clubs are reportedly keeping a close eye. With Madueke gone and uncertainty around other forwards like Nkunku and Guiu, Chelsea must tread carefully — especially if they don’t have a replacement lined up.
One thing is clear: under Maresca, nobody’s spot is safe. And in this summer of transformation, Chelsea are clearly more focused on building a hungry, dynamic, and committed squad than maintaining names for sentiment’s sake.
Should Jackson leave, it will mark yet another bold — if risky — decision in a transfer window that’s shaping up to define the Maresca era.
Chelsea Consider Shock Nicolas Jackson Sale After Madueke Exit in Ruthless Summer Overhaul
