‘Chelsea ready to accept Nicolas Jackson offer as replacement lined up’
Chelsea are prepared to accept offers for Nicolas Jackson in the summer transfer window as they are working on signing his replacement.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Enzo Maresca has grown impatient with the 24-year-old’s performances.
This comes after the Senegal international was sent off during the Blues’ 3-1 Club World Cup defeat against Flamengo, and off the back of a frustrating season.
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett told Football Insider that Jackson could face a five-match ban after his “unacceptable” challenge was rightly punished by the referee.
The striker scored 13 goals and provided six assists across 36 games in all competitions last season, but Maresca is keen to add a more consistent option to his front line.
Brown told Football Insider last month that Chelsea are interested in Brighton star Joao Pedro, who would be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chelsea line up Nicolas Jackson replacement after Maresca claim
Despite having signed Liam Delap earltier this summer, the Blues are keen to add further ammunition to their attacking ranks if they can shift Jackson.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, explained that Chelsea want a replacement lined up before letting the Senegal international leave.
“Chelsea are looking at signing a new striker,” he told Football Insider.
“From what I hear, they’re going to be open to offers for Nicolas Jackson.
“The manager doesn’t see him as the player he wants to lead the line week in, week out, and if they can bring in a replacement they’ll let him go.
“He’s been frustrated by him all season and the red card the other day just confirmed their doubts.
“Chelsea want a reliable and consistent striker who they know is going to show up for them.
“They’ve been keeping it under their hat, but they’ve been looking behind the scenes for somebody to come in and replace Jackson.
“If they can get that lined up, then they’ll let him go if an offer arrives.
“They want to progress and become more consistent, and they won’t do that with Jackson up front.”
Alejandro Garnacho update emerges after Man United latest
Alongside their ambitions of signing a new striker, Chelsea are also eyeing Man United winger Alejandro Garnacho to strengthen their wide options.
Football Insider revealed on 19 June that Man United want to inspire a bidding war between interested clubs as they aim to make the most from his sale.
Sources say bidding is expected to start at around £50million in the coming days and weeks, with Garnacho set to leave after falling out with Ruben Amorim.
Brown told Football Insider on 5 May that Chelsea are plotting a move to sign Garnacho after missing out during the January transfer window.
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