Manchester United plotting surprise move for Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson | OneFootball

Manchester United have shown interest in signing Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, as per reports.

Heading into the summer, Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap emerged as United’s priority striker target. The Red Devils were prepared to trigger his £30million release clause to bring him back to Manchester.

However, the ex-Manchester City man has decided to join Chelsea, leaving INEOS scrambling for options. Victor Osimhen is leaning towards a move to Saudi Arabia and Viktor Gyokeres wants Champions League football.

Manchester United want Nicolas Jackson

As such, with Ruben Amorim keen to sign a new centre-forward to spearhead his attack, United have expressed their “interest in completing a surprise summer move” for Jackson, claims FootballTransfers.

It is reported that United are monitoring Jackson’s situation and have already made an approach for him.

The 23-year-old Senegal international moved to Stamford Bridge from Villarreal in 2023 in a deal believed to be worth around £32 million.

Jackson is currently viewed as the Blues’ first-choice striker, having scored 30 goals in 78 appearances for the London club.

However, the arrival of Delap has raised question marks over his role under Enzo Maresca. Further, it has been reported that Chelsea are also keen on signing French striker Hugo Ekitike, whose arrival could push Jackson further down the pecking order.

It is believed that Jackson has been identified as a good option for Amorim’s attack due to his athleticism and movement.

Having said that, the Senegalese goalscoring record is underwhelming and United cannot afford to bring in another misfiring attacker.

Further, Chelsea are reportedly not too keen on parting ways with Jackson just yet, as he is tied to the club until 2033.

Meanwhile, Maresca appears to be also interested in keeping Jadon Sancho at the club, as Chelsea have allegedly opened talks with his representatives to agree terms over a permanent transfer.

Featured image Stuart Franklin via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social