Chelsea Set £80million Price Tag on Forward Amid Man United Interest – Report | OneFootball

Nicolas Jackson Transfer Update: Chelsea Name Price as Manchester United Circle

Chelsea have set a firm valuation of Nicolas Jackson between £80 million and £100 million, according to a Sky Sports report by Kaveh Solhekol. With Manchester United showing keen interest, alongside European and Saudi Arabian clubs, the Blues are holding all the cards thanks to Jackson’s long-term contract, which still has eight years left to run.

Why Chelsea Are Calm About Jackson’s Future

Chelsea are in no rush to sell their 24-year-old Senegalese striker. Despite a turbulent Club World Cup campaign, where Jackson saw his role reduced due to the bright form of new signings Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, Chelsea’s management remain confident in his abilities.

Sky Sports notes, “It is understood that Chelsea feel that Jackson has a better scoring and goal involvement record over the past two seasons in a higher standard league.” Jackson’s 34 goal contributions over the past two Premier League seasons outshine Hugo Ekitike’s 29 in the Bundesliga. With Liverpool paying £79 million for Ekitike, Chelsea see that as the starting point for any negotiation, particularly with a domestic rival like Manchester United.

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Changing Shape at Stamford Bridge

Should Jackson depart, Chelsea are not necessarily looking for another out-and-out No 9. With Pedro Neto capable of playing centrally, the Blues are reportedly considering wide reinforcements instead. Names like Xavi Simons, Alejandro Garnacho, Morgan Rogers and Kenan Yildiz have emerged on Chelsea’s radar.

Joao Pedro himself has acknowledged the intense competition for places, telling Sky Sports, “I’m prepared to compete for a starting position against the likes of Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson.” This depth gives Chelsea flexibility, but it also places a question mark over Jackson’s future involvement.

United’s Search for Firepower

For Manchester United, Jackson represents a tantalising option as they look to bolster their attacking options. United are understood to be monitoring his situation closely but are wary of Chelsea’s high valuation. Mark McAdam summed up the mood on Sky Sports, saying, “That’s a lot of money!” United’s recruitment team will need to weigh up whether Jackson’s Premier League output justifies such a heavy investment, especially when more affordable options may exist abroad.

What’s Next for Chelsea?

Chelsea’s transfer business remains firmly exit-dependent. Any Jackson departure could free up funds and squad space, but the club are wary of maintaining balance in their attack. With Delap, Pedro, and Neto already in the mix, Chelsea’s hierarchy will be keen to avoid a bloated forward line.

Fans will be watching closely to see if Jackson’s future is settled early or if this drags on into the final weeks of the window. With United circling and Saudi riches in the background, Chelsea know they hold the stronger hand — but every player has their price.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Chelsea supporter, reading this report raises mixed emotions. On the one hand, Nicolas Jackson has been frustratingly inconsistent, especially in big matches. His reduced minutes at the Club World Cup were telling, especially with Delap and Pedro showing hunger and sharpness. Yet, when on form, Jackson offers pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing that few in the squad can match.

The £80-100 million price tag seems steep, but it signals Chelsea’s intent not to be bullied in the market. Selling to Manchester United always feels like a risk, especially with their own striking issues. But if Chelsea can get near top dollar and reinvest wisely in a wide player like Xavi Simons or even Garnacho, it could be a shrewd move.

The key, though, is timing. Fans don’t want another last-minute panic sale followed by a rushed signing. If Jackson is to go, it must be early, allowing Pochettino time to bed in his preferred front line. Stability has been lacking at Stamford Bridge for too long. This summer is a chance to build a well-balanced, adaptable attack. Whether Jackson is part of that or not remains to be seen, but Chelsea must control the narrative, not react to it.