Report: Premier League and European clubs target Chelsea striker | OneFootball

Chelsea Transfer Talk: Nicolas Jackson’s Future Uncertain Amid Simons Pursuit

Jackson’s Chelsea Status No Longer Secure

Chelsea are reportedly bracing for fresh interest in Nicolas Jackson following Benjamin Sesko’s departure from RB Leipzig. According to Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol, “Chelsea are expecting there to be renewed interest in Nicolas Jackson in the next few days after RB Leipzig sell Benjamin Sesko.” Interest is said to be coming from Champions League-level clubs across Italy, Germany and the Premier League.

It’s a significant development for the 23-year-old Senegalese striker, who managed 14 goals in all competitions last season. Despite his starting spot, Jackson is “not viewed as untouchable at Chelsea” following the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. That sentiment marks a major shift in the club’s forward planning — and perhaps hints at evolving tactical preferences under Enzo Maresca.

Transfer Market Shaping Jackson’s Valuation

With striker valuations climbing, Jackson’s price tag would “be in line with fees paid for strikers in the current market,” reports Sky Sports. While no official number was shared, Chelsea will likely seek a premium for a young, developing player with Champions League experience.

His form was patchy in 2024/25, but Chelsea are aware that young forwards often need time to mature. Letting Jackson go so early could risk repeating mistakes of past sales like Romelu Lukaku or Mo Salah.

Simons on Chelsea’s Radar

Parallel to Jackson’s future, Chelsea are targeting a move for Dutch star Xavi Simons. They are reportedly hoping to secure a deal for under £50 million. “They value the RB Leipzig player at between €50m and €55m,” according to Sky Sports.

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Simons impressed on loan at Leipzig last season, and his versatility in midfield or wide roles fits Chelsea’s long-term rebuild. However, it’s worth noting: “Chelsea have not made a bid for Simons yet.” That might change soon as the end of the transfer window nears.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, this update raises mixed emotions. On one hand, Nicolas Jackson’s inconsistency last season did frustrate large sections of the fanbase — especially in tight games where composure in front of goal was lacking. But on the other, he showed promise, work rate, and glimpses of genuine quality.

If Chelsea choose to cash in now, the key question becomes: is Joao Pedro or Liam Delap ready to lead the line in the Premier League? Joao Pedro offers flair and flexibility, but lacks a traditional No.9 profile, while Delap is still very raw. Jackson, for all his flaws, is further along in his development.

The Simons news is exciting. Chelsea have lacked creativity and ball-carrying midfielders who can transition quickly and affect the final third. Xavi Simons ticks those boxes, and if the board can secure him for under £50m, it would represent smart business.