Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has revealed that he texted striker Nicolas Jackson following his loan move to Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window.
The Senegalese international, after a protracted saga, moved to the Bundesliga on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy.
While financial terms were not formally disclosed, the deal is reported to be worth up to €81.5 million. Reports indicate Jackson and his representatives gave up around £1.3 million to secure the move, contrary to claims by Uli Hoeneß that they paid €3 million.
The obligation-to-buy clause reportedly triggers after 40 appearances, though it remains unclear whether this refers to starts or total appearances.
Jackson, who had been Chelsea’s leading striker for two seasons, fell down the pecking order following the arrivals of João Pedro and Liam Delap, ultimately becoming the club’s third-choice forward.
The transfer almost collapsed in the final days of the window after Delap suffered a hamstring injury in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Fulham.
Chelsea initially withdrew from the deal, but Jackson, already in Munich, urged his representatives to salvage the move.
Bayern subsequently agreed to revised terms, including a €16.5 million loan fee and a €65 million permanent transfer due in summer 2026.
Despite reports suggesting tension between Jackson and Chelsea, Maresca confirmed that he reached out to wish him well.
Ahead of Chelsea’s Brentford game, he said: Nico, for me, it is quite easy in terms of he is a Bayern Munich player. I sent him a message and wished him all the best. He was working well when he was here, so I wish him all the best.
The striker is also likely to face Chelsea in the Champions League group stage, with both clubs drawn together. For now, however, Maresca’s focus is on the clash against Brentford this weekend.
A win will be crucial to maintain the club’s unbeaten start to the season, though they may have to do it without Cole Palmer, who is doubtful for Saturday’s game.
