Report: Major European club contacts Chelsea forward | OneFootball

Nicolas Jackson’s Chelsea Future in Doubt Amid Juventus Interest

Jackson Faces Uncertain Future After Flamengo Red Card

Nicolas Jackson’s place at Chelsea appears to be hanging by a thread after the striker picked up yet another red card – this time in the Club World Cup semi-final against Flamengo. As reported by Sky Italia, Juventus have now made contact with the 24-year-old’s representatives over a potential summer move.

Jackson, who has scored 30 goals in 80 appearances since joining the Blues, has become a polarising figure. Despite flashes of promise, his inefficiency in front of goal and poor disciplinary record continue to frustrate fans and coaches alike. His latest red card – a straight dismissal just four minutes after coming off the bench for raking his studs down Ayrton Lucas’ shin – has further intensified scrutiny.

The Senegalese forward, who was already serving a domestic suspension for a prior sending-off at Newcastle, apologised after the game.

“I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down,” Jackson wrote on Instagram. “Another red card and honestly, I’m so angry at myself… it wasn’t intentional… I take full responsibility.”

Juventus and Napoli Circle as Delap Arrival Adds Pressure

According to Sky Italia, Juventus have made initial contact regarding Jackson’s availability. While Napoli are also monitoring the situation, their priority targets remain Darwin Núñez and Lorenzo Lucca.

Photo IMAGO

With Chelsea’s £30 million acquisition of Liam Delap from Ipswich, competition for places up front has increased significantly. Delap was preferred to Jackson against Flamengo, a decision head coach Enzo Maresca explained as tactical:

“Just because they are both very good and we decide game by game who is going to play… I made some changes and hopefully they are good ones.”

Maresca added that Delap and Jackson are “quite similar” in style, and that Delap would need time to adapt to the Chelsea system.

Discipline Issues Overshadow Jackson’s Chelsea Contribution

While Jackson has had moments of brilliance, his temperament on the pitch remains a major concern. With two red cards in just over a month, patience within the club appears to be wearing thin.

For a Chelsea side in transition and aiming to reclaim domestic and European relevance, having a consistent and composed striker is crucial. Jackson’s raw talent is evident – but time may be running out for him to prove he can mature into the player Chelsea need.

Transfer Window Could Be a Turning Point

The coming weeks may be pivotal. If Juventus formalise their interest and Jackson’s form – and discipline – fails to improve, a summer exit could suit all parties. Whether that’s a permanent move or a loan spell remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his Chelsea future is far from secure.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, this situation is frustrating but not entirely surprising. Nicolas Jackson has had ample opportunities to establish himself as Chelsea’s main striker, yet persistent lapses in discipline are holding him back. A red card in a Club World Cup semi-final is more than just a personal error – it’s a moment that reflects poorly on the club, especially on the world stage.

The apology was heartfelt and sincere, but actions speak louder than words. Fans have supported Jackson through his early struggles, but patience is wearing thin, especially with the arrival of a promising young alternative in Liam Delap. The fact that Maresca didn’t hesitate to bench Jackson shows there’s no guaranteed starting spot anymore.

Juventus’ reported interest may offer a lifeline. A move to Serie A could be a fresh start for Jackson – and perhaps Chelsea, too, could benefit from restructuring their forward line around players better suited to the manager’s philosophy. If Napoli are hesitant and Juve are serious, a deal might happen sooner rather than later.

Ultimately, Jackson still has potential, but he’s on borrowed time at Stamford Bridge. If he doesn’t change quickly – both in form and mentality – fans may be waving goodbye before the season even kicks off.