West Ham make moves to sign Nicolas Jackson as Chelsea striker transfer race heats up | OneFootball

West Ham United are reportedly “making moves” to secure the signature of Chelsea attacker Nicolas Jackson, according to prominent transfer insider on X.

The Hammers are looking to bolster their frontline ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, and Jackson has emerged as a primary target following a season of mixed fortunes across Europe.

The Senegal international spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Bayern Munich, but the German giants have recently confirmed they will not activate their €65 million purchase option.

This decision has paved the way for Jackson to return to London, though his long-term future at Stamford Bridge remains shrouded in uncertainty.

West Ham eyeing move for Nicolas Jackson

The report from the insider suggests that West Ham are actively positioning themselves to strike a deal as soon as the summer window opens.

Taking to X, he posted the following update: “West Ham making moves for Nicolas Jackson. One to watch…”

The Hammers have long been in the market for a dynamic, young forward who can lead the line and provide a physical presence, a profile that Jackson fits.

With Chelsea currently in a state of transition following the departure of Enzo Maresca and the subsequent sacking of Liam Rosenior, the Blues are expected to overhaul their squad once more.

While Chelsea recently finalised a deal for Strasbourg striker Emmanuel Emegha, they appear open to sanctioning Jackson’s exit if a suitable offer arrives.

West Ham will face stiff competition, however, with Newcastle United strongly interested in Jackson while Aston Villa are also eyeing the Bundesliga man.

The player will not prefer a move to West Ham if the Hammers end up getting relegated with the club currently sitting 17th, two points above the relegation zone.

Nicolas Jackson’s time at Chelsea

Jackson’s tenure at Chelsea has been a rollercoaster since his arrival from Villarreal in 2023.

While he showed flashes of brilliance and immense work rate, he often struggled with clinical finishing and disciplinary issues, notably receiving two red cards late in the 2024-25 season.

During his recent loan spell at Bayern Munich, Jackson proved he can still deliver at the highest level, netting 10 goals in 29 appearances while serving as a reliable deputy to Harry Kane.

Despite these respectable numbers, Bayern’s refusal to pay the premium permanent fee means the 24-year-old is once again a man in demand.