Chelsea and Napoli in contact over a deal for Nicolas Jackson | OneFootball

Chelsea and Napoli are in contact over a potential transfer for striker Nicolas Jackson, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

Napoli manager Max Allegri has made signing a new striker his top priority for the final weeks of the transfer window.

Following Romelu Lukaku’s permanent move to Fenerbahce, Napoli are keen to add depth and competition for Rasmus Hojlund.

Alongside exploratory enquiries for Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus and Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, Jackson has emerged as an attractive option for the Partenopei.

Chelsea are open to selling the Senegal international, provided their steep valuation is met.

Jackson spent the 2025/26 season on loan at German champions Bayern Munich, but they opted not to make the deal permanent.

Since returning to West London, his place in Xabi Alonso’s plans has been uncertain, especially after being omitted from Chelsea’s final pre-season fixtures.

With the Blues keen to trim their squad and generate funds, Chelsea have placed a £65 million price tag on the forward.

Napoli’s entry into the race could prove highly beneficial for the Blues, as it threatens to spark a genuine bidding war.

Atletico Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have all monitored Jackson’s situation this summer, but so far, interested parties have been reluctant to meet Chelsea’s asking price.

Napoli and Chelsea enjoy a good relationship, having recently agreed a loan-to-buy deal for French defender Benoit Badiashile earlier this summer.

While direct talks remain ongoing, Napoli must clear squad space before making a concrete move for Jackson.

Noa Lang is the prime candidate to be moved on, with Turkish giants Galatasaray and Dutch side Ajax both showing interest.

Napoli begin their 2026/27 campaign with an away fixture against Genoa on Saturday.