Chelsea are delaying a final decision on Nicolas Jackson’s future as they monitor the outcome of Alexander Isak’s transfer saga, which could spark a chain reaction across the market.
Bayern Munich are leading the chase to sign Jackson before the transfer window closes, with the striker understood to be open to a move to Germany.
However, Chelsea are hesitant to sanction a deal, likely to be a loan with an obligation to buy, until they know whether Newcastle United or Liverpool may be forced into the market for a striker. This is according to Matt Law of The Telegraph.
Newcastle have already rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool for Isak and remain firm that they will not be pressured into selling on unfavourable terms.
Yet Liverpool are still pushing to sign the Sweden international and could turn to Jackson or another option if they fail to secure their top target.
Jackson has been linked to Newcastle previously, with the Magpies also failing in their pursuit of Wolves forward Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Aston Villa are another club showing strong interest, but Chelsea’s preference is to keep their options open until the final days of the window.
The Blues are already preparing for significant movement elsewhere, with Christopher Nkunku on the verge of a €35m permanent transfer to AC Milan.
His departure, alongside a possible Jackson exit, would leave Chelsea looking to sign two attacking reinforcements.
Talks are advancing for Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, while RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons and Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez are also targets.
Spurs, who are wary of losing Simons to Chelsea after missing out on Eberechi Eze to Arsenal, have held their own discussions over the Dutchman.
Barcelona are said to value Lopez at £60m, a price Chelsea are reluctant to meet, but the club remain confident of strengthening before deadline day.
In addition to Nkunku and Jackson, Chelsea are working on exits for Axel Disasi, Tyrique George and Raheem Sterling.
