Jackson transfer: boost or gamble for Bayern? | OneFootball

FC Bayern has signed Nicolas Jackson from FC Chelsea. The Senegalese player is planned as a backup for Harry Kane at the record champions. But does he really fit into Vincent Kompany's system?

After a long tug-of-war with countless twists, Bayern managed to finalize the signing of Nicolas Jackson on the last day of the summer transfer window.

Jackson will initially play for FC Bayern on loan until the end of the season. According to consistent media reports, the Munich club will pay around 16.5 million euros for this – a new record amount for a loan at Säbener Straße. Additionally, there is a purchase option of 65 million euros, which could even become mandatory under certain conditions. This deal could end up costing Bayern more than 80 million euros.

Less Playmaker, More Counter-Attacker

Jackson brings qualities that have been missing in the Bayern squad so far. The 24-year-old is a dynamic attacker with a strong start, excelling in transition play. With top speed values over 35 km/h, he is significantly faster than Harry Kane. His game thrives on deep runs, powerful dribbles, and physical presence.

His preferred area remains the center forward position – although he could help out on the wings due to his speed. Notably, he likes to drop deep to initiate play himself, but he doesn't possess the technical finesse of Kane.

This is precisely where the crux lies: While Kane excels as a disguised playmaker, Jackson needs space for his game. With his back to the goal, he appears awkward, and he lacks quick thinking in short passing play. This could become a problem, especially against deep-lying Bundesliga opponents.

At least Kompany has the option to use both together – Kane slightly withdrawn, Jackson as a classic number nine in front.

His goal record at Chelsea (30 goals, 12 assists in 81 games) reads decently. But the picture is clouded: Jackson is known as a notorious chance waster. In the 2023/24 season, he scored 14 Premier League goals with an xG value of 18.64 – leaving almost five "certain" goals unscored. Kane, on the other hand, regularly exceeded his values.

Jackson Transfer Also Carries Risks

Additionally, he has a reputation as a hothead: In the previous season, Jackson was sent off twice with a red card – both times in important matches. He has also not convinced as a substitute: Only three of his 30 goals came after substitutions.

The idea behind the transfer is understandable: young, dynamic, versatile – and feasible on a short-term loan basis. Jackson can put Bundesliga defenses under pressure with his athleticism and give Bayern a new option in attack.

But the risks are undeniable: his inconsistent finishing, lack of experience at the highest level, and discipline problems make him a gamble. Especially if Kane were to be out for an extended period, Jackson as a solo performer would be a big question mark.

What is clear is that Jackson brings speed, strength, and a new element to Bayern's game – but he remains a project with risks. Whether he can be more than a short-term stopgap is something he still has to prove.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.