Manchester United are seriously considering a summer move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, as the club searches for answers to its ongoing goal scoring problems.
United’s interest in the 23-year-old Senegal international comes amid concerns over their striking depth. The team managed only 44 goals in the Premier League last season -their lowest tally in over a decade.
Jackson, who joined Chelsea last summer from Villarreal for £32 million, endured a mixed first season at Stamford Bridge. While he showed flashes of promise, scoring 14 goals across all competitions, inconsistency and disciplinary issues raised questions over his long-term role in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans.
Now, with Chelsea having added João Pedro from Brighton and teenage sensation Liam Delap from Ipswich, Jackson’s place in the starting line-up appears under threat.
Sources close to the matter suggest Manchester United are “monitoring” Jackson’s situation. The Times reports that a formal move could follow if Chelsea show a willingness to negotiate. The London club are understood to be open to selling for a fee in the region of €60 million (£51 million), despite having initially valued the striker closer to €100 million.
An Old Trafford source told The New York Times, “We’ve got a young core in attack, but we need more firepower. Jackson is one of the names we’re seriously looking at.”
United have already made moves this window, securing Matheus Cunha and showing renewed interest in Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. However, with Rasmus Højlund still finding his feet and Joshua Zirkzee struggling for form, Erik ten Hag is believed to be pushing for another forward who can both score and link play.
Chelsea, on their part, appear ready to listen to offers. Jackson’s recent red card at the Club World Cup and his dip in confidence have not gone unnoticed within the club.
However, United may not be alone in their pursuit. Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery — who coached Jackson at Villarreal — are also reportedly keen. AC Milan and Napoli are monitoring developments as well.
For United, the decision is urgent but not hasty. The club is weighing Jackson’s upside — pace, strength, and positional awareness — against the risk of another inconsistent performer in an already fragile frontline.
“He’s got talent, no doubt,” said one scout who watched Jackson during Chelsea’s pre-season. “But United will have to ask themselves: is he ready to lead their line, or just another gamble?”
With the transfer window open and United’s ambitions clear, the coming weeks could prove pivotal – both for Jackson’s career and for a club still searching for a reliable No. 9.
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