Nicolas Jackson reacts to farewell message from Chelsea teammate
Nicolas Jackson reacted to a goodbye message from Chelsea teammate Lesley Ugochukwu on social media.
The transfer window has not yet opened, but that has not stopped Enzo Maresca’s side from getting a head-start on their summer moves.
Liam Delap has chosen Chelsea as his preferred destination ahead of a departure from Ipswich, and the two clubs have reached an agreement on his transfer to West London [The Athletic].
Despite a fast start this season, Jackson has scored just one Premier League goal this calendar year and when combined with Christopher Nkunku’s struggles this campaign, the number nine position was high on the priority list this coming transfer window.
With a release clause of just £30million [BBC Sport], signing Delap was a no-brainer thanks to his impressive 12 goals in a miserable Ipswich side, but before Chelsea makes any more moves this summer, they will likely have to consider trimming some of the excess from their bloated squad.
Lesley Ugochukwu departs Southampton ahead of return to Chelsea
Following a season on loan at Southampton, Ugochukwu shared a montage on Instagram of his best moments with the South Coast side, captioned: “A short but intense chapter. Thank you for your support and for making me feel like one of your own from day one. I wish this club all the best and hope it returns to the place it deserves in the Premier League soon”.
The post was liked by Jackson, showing his support for the French midfielder.
Lesley Ugochukwu impresses during loan spell at Southampton
Football Insider Verdict
Ugochukwu suffered a slow start to life with Southampton, leading to Chelsea having concerns over the Frenchman’s lack of game time.
The young midfielder is held in high regard at Stamford Bridge, and the 21-year-old began to prove himself as the season went on.
Come the end of the season, Ugochukwu was a regular starter at St. Mary’s, with his goal against West Ham a standout moment in what was a dismal season for the now-relegated side.
| 2024/25 Premier League stats | Ugochukwu |
| Appearances | 26 |
| Starts | 18 |
| Goal | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes | 1,664 |
But with a stacked midfield ahead of him on his return to London, the Blues may choose to send the France U21 international out on loan for another season.
However, with a season in the Premier League under his belt, and Real Madrid interested in Enzo Fernandez, it would be no surprise to see Ugochukwu given the chance to prove himself in pre-season before Chelsea make a decision on his future.