Nicolas Jackson is prepared to remain at Chelsea and compete for a place in Xabi Alonso’s plans, despite interest from Aston Villa and an unnamed Spanish club, according to The Sun.
The 25-year-old Senegalese striker has returned to Chelsea after spending last season on loan at Bayern Munich and is understood to have enjoyed working with Alonso during the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.
Jackson’s preference at present is to stay at Stamford Bridge if Chelsea are willing to include him in their plans for the new campaign. He believes he can still make a significant contribution and help the club qualify for European competitions.
His position marks a change from last summer, when the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro pushed him down the pecking order. Jackson found himself competing mainly for a place on the substitutes’ bench, increasing the likelihood that he would leave the club.
Nevertheless, Jackson’s representatives recognise that the final decision may not rest solely with the player. With the summer transfer window approaching its closing stages, the market could develop rapidly and the forward continues to have alternative options.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery remains a long-standing admirer of Jackson. Emery gave the striker the opportunity to establish himself in European football, and the pair have retained a positive relationship. Jackson is also understood to receive occasional feedback from Emery about his performances.
The Sun reports that an unnamed leading Spanish club has also asked about Jackson’s situation at Chelsea. If that club decides it needs further attacking options before the transfer window closes, it could make a formal approach.
Jackson pushed for a move to Bayern last season because he wanted the chance to work under Vincent Kompany. He made a favourable impression on Bayern’s players and coaching staff during his time in Germany, but the club was ultimately unable to secure a permanent transfer.
His return to Chelsea has also started positively. Jackson impressed during pre-season preparations and hopes to demonstrate that he can fulfil his potential and develop into a regular and dependable source of goals.
For now, Jackson is inclined to stay and compete for his role at Chelsea. His future will depend on whether the club decides to retain him and what responsibilities Alonso is prepared to offer him during the new season.
The final stages of the transfer window could still alter the situation, particularly if Aston Villa or the unnamed Spanish club turns its interest into a formal bid. But unless Chelsea decide otherwise, Jackson is ready to fight for his place rather than seek an immediate departure.
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