Chelsea will be retaining Nicolas Jackson in their first team squad for the upcoming season. Although there has been talk of adding to their options up front, the 23-year-old is still very much part of the club’s plans and expected to turn up for pre-season training with new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Sources close to the club tell that Jackson is not for sale and that there is no talk of a loan or sale. The thinking at Cobham is that with the right work on shape and coaching in that area he can take a big step forward: he scored 14 goals in all competitions last season.
Jackson to benefit from new tactical setup
Enzo Maresca sees Jackson as a young player with good potential. His finishing was inconsistent in his first season but showed power pressing intelligence and, crucially, enough positional flexibility — exactly the sort of things that would appeal to Maresca in his possession based system.
Chelsea will also hope that the new manager’s structure will provide more clarity around Jackson despite his disregard in the Pochettino era. With a full pre-season, there’s hope Jackson can mature and become a calmer and more composed finisher in front of goal. The club is not seeking an immediate replacement but growth from within.
New striker still possible—but Nicolas Jackson leads
Chelsea are looking around at strikers, but not with a view to unseating Jackson. There is also that space available in the squad for some versatility in profile or a younger striker to be brought in alongside the current forwards. The club has crossed some other targets off their list and they are being patient to find the right fit.
As things currently stand, short of an unexpected takeover bid, Jackson will start next season as Chelsea’s primary striker.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
