Chelsea eye big payday as Jackson trials for Alonso in pre‑season

[Getty Images] Chelsea would accept a substantial fee for Nicolas Jackson this summer, with the striker expected to command well over £50 million. The club has not disclosed an exact amount, but the price is described as well in excess of double the £25 million quoted for a Spain under‑21 international.

Jackson has been handed the chance to impress new manager Xabi Alonso during the pre‑season tour of Australia and Asia. The 44‑year‑old Spaniard confirmed last week that the forward will join the squad after featuring for Senegal at the World Cup this summer.

His return to Stamford Bridge follows Bayern Munich’s decision to avoid triggering the £56.25 million (€65 million) obligation‑to‑buy clause in his loan deal. The clause was not activated because the appearance threshold required for a permanent move was not met.

Alonso faces the obvious need to reduce the number of strikers on Chelsea’s books. First‑choice Joao Pedro is already in the mix, while Liam Delap’s future remains uncertain after an injury‑hit debut season and several managerial changes.

Emmanuel Emegha has arrived from partner club Strasbourg, adding another option to the attack. Chelsea’s surprise failure to qualify for Europe has left plans to field three strikers in doubt.

Younger forward Marc Guiu is expected to be loaned out or sold as the club trims its forward line. One interested club has been quoted a fee of £25 million for the Spain under‑21 international.

Jackson’s expected fee, well above double that £25 million figure, reflects his previous Premier League success under Mauricio Pochettino in his first season after joining from Villarreal. His proven record in England adds weight to the valuation.

Aston Villa are known admirers, with manager Unai Emery having worked with Jackson at his former club. Interest also comes from overseas clubs, although the size of any potential fee has not been disclosed.

Alonso will assess his options while the club weighs the financial and squad‑balance implications of a sale. Until a decision is reached, the future of Jackson and Chelsea’s other striking options remains unresolved.