Chelsea’s next move: Harder bid considered to sanction Jackson’s permanent exit | OneFootball

Chelsea are considering a move for Sporting CP striker Conrad Harder as they reassess their attacking options before the transfer deadline.

The interest comes after Nicolas Jackson’s proposed loan to Bayern Munich collapsed, leaving uncertainty around his future at Stamford Bridge.

Jackson had travelled to Germany to complete his medical after Bayern agreed a record £13 million loan fee with a £56.2m option to buy.

But Chelsea abruptly pulled the plug following a hamstring injury to Liam Delap, who was forced off just 14 minutes into Saturday’s 2-0 win over Fulham.

The injury prompted Chelsea to block Jackson’s exit, leaving Bayern sporting director Max Eberl to confirm the deal was off.

Jackson, who remains in Germany, is believed to favour the move and may still push for a permanent switch if Chelsea receive an acceptable offer.

The Blues are reluctant to weaken their frontline without securing cover and have stepped up enquiries for alternatives.

Harder has emerged as a leading candidate, with scouts tracking his form in Portugal and discussions ongoing about a possible late bid.

The 20-year-old Dane has impressed with his physicality and finishing and is viewed as a long-term option.

While no loan for Jackson will be sanctioned, the situation could shift if a sale funds the arrival of a younger striker.

Manager Enzo Maresca has turned to academy graduate Tyrique George to bolster numbers and admitted the balance of his squad is far from ideal.

He underlined the need for two natural strikers, suggesting that relying on wingers such as Pedro Neto in a central role cannot be sustained.

Jackson’s long-term contract, running until 2033, gives Chelsea leverage, but his mixed performances last season and lack of pre-season involvement have already cast doubt over his role.

Chelsea have been one of the Premier League’s busiest clubs this summer, with Alejandro Garnacho their ninth signing, and remain active as the transfer window ticks down.