Chelsea loanee Nicolas Jackson is set to return to Stamford Bridge this summer, with the Blues planning to give incoming boss Xabi Alonso the opportunity to evaluate the forward ahead of the new campaign.
The 24-year-old’s temporary switch to Bayern Munich last September stemmed mainly from a fractured working relationship with then-manager Enzo Maresca.
Club sources have told the Daily Mail the Senegalese striker remains a valued asset.
Following Maresca’s departure from west London, the door has reopened for Jackson to feature under Alonso’s leadership.
His long-term future at the club remains uncertain, with no guarantees about his role going forward.
Several Premier League sides and clubs from overseas have already made enquiries about the Senegal international’s availability.
Should an appealing bid materialise, Chelsea would not rule out parting ways with the striker.
However, the current strategy is to give Jackson a chance to make an impression on Alonso, who officially takes charge on July 1.
Nicolas Jackson is reportedly returning to Stamford Bridge
| GETTY
The new manager will need to assess the forward from a distance initially, as Jackson will be on international duty at the World Cup, which kicks off on June 11.
Sources suggest the player would welcome remaining at Chelsea, provided he receives adequate game time.
The Blues currently have four strikers on their books: Jackson, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha.
Given that Chelsea will not be in European competition, four strikes will be too many for them next season.
Jackson could fight his way back into the side if he impresses Xabi Alonso
| PA
Alonso and the club’s sporting leadership will jointly determine the fate of Jackson and the other forwards.
One factor working in Jackson’s favour is his ability to operate on the wing, unlike Delap, who functions solely as a central striker.
During his Bavarian stint, Jackson netted 11 times across 34 appearances in all competitions.
Bayern paid £14.3million for the loan arrangement, with a permanent option set at £56.2million.
Nicolas Jackson won the Bundesliga while with Bayern Munich
|
REUTERS
Chelsea acquired Jackson from Villarreal for £32million in 2023, and his contract runs until 2033.
The Blues’ striking options have had very contrasting seasons, with Pedro impressing throughout, scoring 15 goals in his first season with Chelsea in the Premier League.
Delap struggled to find his form, only scoring one goal against Fulham in the league and once in the Champions League.
The return of Jackson could shake things up in the Blues’ frontline should he impress Alonso.
