Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson has reportedly sparked a transfer interest from Atletico Madrid and two other Premier League clubs.
The 23-year-old has had an impressive 2024-25 season, scoring nine goals and creating five assists in 23 league appearances.
But he picked a hamstring issue against West Ham United two weeks ago, and it has now been revealed that the injury will keep him sidelined for around six weeks.
With Marc Guiu also sidelined, manager Enzo Maresca featured Christopher Nkunku as a striker against Brighton & Hove Albion in Friday’s Premier League fixture.
However, the French star produced a disappointing display at the Amex Stadium yesterday, with Gary Neville labelling him and Cole Palmer “useless” for their abysmal showing.
Chelsea have been linked with moves for a new centre-forward. And if they bring in a No 9, it could push Jackson towards the exit.
According to The Sun, Atletico Madrid will be keen to secure the 23-year-old’s signature if he becomes available in the summer.
However, the Spanish giants face competition as Newcastle United and Aston Villa are also said to be monitoring developments.
Alexander Isak’s contract will not expire until 2028, but the Magpies could find it difficult to keep hold of the Swedish footballer if they fail to deliver Champions League football.
Meanwhile, Villa lost Jhon Duran to Saudi club Al-Nassr in the winter transfer window.
Arsenal also submitted a bid for Ollie Watkins, and though the offer was turned down, the Gunners could return for the England international in the summer.
Jackson joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 for a fee reported to be £32 million.
Since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, the former Villarreal star has bagged 26 goals and registered 11 assists in 68 appearances across all competitions.
His numbers have been impressive, but it appears the Blues need an elite striker to lead them back to the top of the table.
Stats from Transfermarkt