Barcelona has positioned itself as the leading contender to sign Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, with the Catalans pushing for a loan deal that includes an option to buy the €50 million-rated striker.
Chelsea Open to €50m Jackson Sale as Barcelona Gain Transfer Edge
This development follows Chelsea’s aggressive recruitment of attackers Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, which has relegated the 24-year-old Senegalese international to third-choice under manager Enzo Maresca.
Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 for €37 million 13, now seeks regular playing time amid intense competition at Stamford Bridge.
Despite his preference to remain in the Premier League 211, Barcelona’s proposal offers a strategic return to La Liga—a league where he previously thrived, netting 13 goals in his final Villarreal season.
Director of Football Deco is driving the move, viewing Jackson as an ideal understudy to Robert Lewandowski.
With the Polish striker entering the final year of his contract and Saudi clubs circling, Jackson represents both immediate depth and a long-term solution.
His physicality, pace, and familiarity with Spanish football align with Barca’s needs for a dynamic forward.
Chelsea initially demanded €90–110 million for Jackson but has since lowered their valuation to €50 million. While Manchester United, Newcastle, and Aston Villa retain interest, Chelsea is hesitant to sell to domestic rivals.
Barcelona’s loan-with-option structure could circumvent financial constraints while meeting Chelsea’s profit-seeking goals.
Jackson’s camp remains open to discussions, though Premier League retention is his priority.
For Barcelona, this deal hinges on financial flexibility and convincing Chelsea to accept deferred payment terms. With the September 1 deadline approaching, negotiations will intensify next week.
