Why Chelsea’s eight-year deal with Nicolas Jackson is a cause for concern | OneFootball

Chelsea are on the verge of signing Villarreal striker Nicolas Jackson, who has completed his medical ahead of his €35 million move to Stamford Bridge.

While Chelsea are landing a talented striker who netted 13 goals for the La Liga outfit last season, eyebrows have been raised over the length of his contract.

The Senegalese youngster has agreed to an eight-year deal, meaning the Blues haven’t given up their policy of offering long-term contracts.

Moves for Mykhailo Mudryk, Enzo Fernandez, Benoit Badiashile and Christopher Nkunku were all done with contracts of six years or above.

The amortisation strategy incurred criticism as the Blues were believed to be doing it purposefully to bypass Financial Fair Play rules.

Handing lengthy contracts would allow Chelsea more control over the players – they can call the shots when it comes to selling them.

On the flip side, the strategy may backfire with underperforming players, leaving Chelsea unable to get them off their books.

The best example is Armando Broja, who penned an extension until 2028 last year.

However, the Albanian striker missed half of last season through an ACL injury. HJe is expected to be available for pre-season.

His fitness will be a huge concern next season, and there’s no guarantee he will be the first choice under new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Mudryk and Badiashile, who were collectively bought for hefty figures, also failed to live up to expectations last season.

A similar situation could unfold with Jackson, as it is unclear whether Pochettino will rely on him for the entire season.

The Senegalese forward will be optimistic to make his mark, as the departures of Kai Havertz, Joao Felix and Hakim Ziyech could help his cause.

Nkunku, who has arrived from RB Leipzig, is tipped to be the new central figure in Chelsea’s attack next season.