Nicolas Jackson race intensifies as European giants enter the running for Chelsea star
Nicolas Jackson has another suitor interested in his services as the race for the striker heats up.
Chelsea are willing to let Jackson leave the club this summer, after manager Enzo Maresca brought in Joao Pedro from Brighton and Liam Delap from Ipswich.
Jackson was suspended for Chelsea’s first Premier League match of the season against Crystal Palace which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Focus for Maresca is now on player sales after spending big on new additions to the squad, with Jackson looking set to leave.
Napoli step up Jackson pursuit amid injury update
Jackson has been subject of interest to Aston Villa and Newcastle, but The Telegraph report, [18 August], that due to an injury to Romelu Lukaku, Napoli have joined the race for the 24-year-old.
They state reports are due to talk place although finances may be a stumbling block to be able to complete a deal.
Lukaku has a thigh injury which could keep the Belgian out for months ahead of the Serie A season starting and Napoli looking to defend their title.
The 32-year-old netted 14 times in the league on the way to Napoli winning the title ahead of Inter by one point.
Jackson destination remains unclear
Jackson is not expected to be at Stamford Bridge this season, but his next destination still remains unclear despite their being plenty of interest for him throughout the summer.
The Senegal international may get the chance to spearhead Napoli’s attack and title charge, though when Lukaku returns from injury the striker may be dropped to the bench.
Interest from Aston Villa and Newcastle looks to have cooled, so Napoli may face little competition for Jackson should they be able to afford him.
Newcastle yet though may make a move amid their ongoing issues to sign a new number nine, even if they are unconvinced about Jackson replacing Alexander Isak.
Jackson has not turned out to be a ruthless finisher in the Premier League, and Maresca clearly feels that Pedro and Delap can fire Chelsea closer to the title.
| Apperances | 81 |
| Goals | 30 |
| Assists | 12 |
Maresca also wants to offload more players in his squad, and that will be essential for the Italian before he can sign any one else.