Manchester United are pursuing a move for Chelsea’s
Nicolas Jackson, with talks already held between the club and the striker’s agent, Ali Barat.
Ruben Amorim is determined to reshape his misfiring attack after last season’s struggles, and Jackson—a 24-year-old Senegal international—is the latest forward to be closely considered by Old Trafford’s recruitment team
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Jackson’s Situation at Chelsea
Jackson, who was Chelsea’s starting centre-forward for much of his two seasons at Stamford Bridge, now finds himself third in the pecking order following the signings of João Pedro and Liam Delap
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Despite a respectable record of 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances, Jackson—once bought from Villarreal for £32 million—has endured inconsistent spells in front of goal and has struggled to fully win over the Chelsea faithful, with notable missed chances and some disciplinary issues
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His recent frustration at Chelsea is compounded by a lack of starts under new boss Enzo Maresca, particularly after a disappointing Club World Cup campaign where he failed to score and was sent off in the semifinal
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Why United Are Interested
United’s interest in Jackson goes beyond simple availability. The Red Devils are thought to value his movement, work rate, and ability to link play—traits that have made him a regular goalscoring threat even if his finishing has sometimes let him down
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Jackson’s profile as a mobile, hardworking forward fits the bill for the kind of dynamic attack Amorim wants to build, especially as Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have not lived up to expectations
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Potential Swap Deal
Chelsea, meanwhile, retain a long-standing interest in Alejandro Garnacho, the Argentine winger whose future at United looks increasingly uncertain
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With Garnacho keen to stay in England despite interest from Napoli and Atletico Madrid, a swap deal involving Jackson and Garnacho has been discussed—though such an arrangement would be complex, with both clubs likely to demand additional cash to make up valuation differences
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Chelsea’s willingness to sell Jackson is contingent on recouping a significant fee, with some reports suggesting a figure of €115 million would be required for Chelsea to part with the striker at this stage, reported BBC Sport's
Nizaar Kinsella.What Happens Next
United’s transfer strategy is still evolving, with the club prioritizing outgoings to free up funds for new signings
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Fabrizio Romano reports that United are aware of Chelsea’s terms for Jackson, but a formal move is unlikely until other sales materialize and the Bryan Mbeumo deal is finalized
. Jackson, for his part, is open to a move and sees United as a viable next step