Nicolas Jackson 'informs' Chelsea he wants to leave | OneFootball

Nicolas Jackson has informed Chelsea he wishes to leave the club, with the striker left out of the squad for Friday night’s pre-season friendly against Bayer Leverkusen.

As reported by The Daily Mail, the 24-year-old has officially told the club he wants to explore a transfer, and Chelsea are now supporting his request by engaging in talks with multiple potential suitors.

Jackson joined the Blues from Villarreal in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth around £32 million. He endured a mixed first two seasons at Stamford Bridge, scoring 30 goals across all competitions but drawing criticism for inconsistent performances and his finishing in key moments.

His omission from the squad to face Leverkusen is the clearest indication yet that a departure is on the cards, with negotiations now under way over a possible move before the close of the transfer window.

Jackson’s desire to leave comes amid increased competition for attacking places at Stamford Bridge following a wave of summer signings. Chelsea have strengthened their frontline with the arrivals of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, Brazilian teenager Estevão Willian from Palmeiras, Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund and João Pedro from Brighton.

They are also pursuing moves for Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons.

With opportunities likely to be limited, Jackson has opted to pursue a move elsewhere, in a decision that signals another step in Chelsea’s ongoing squad reshuffle ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

📸 JOHN MACDOUGALL - AFP or licensors