Nicolas Jackson
Arsenal are reportedly considering a surprising move for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, should their attempts to sign Viktor Gyokeres or Benjamin Sesko fall through. The Gunners are keen to bolster their attacking options and have identified Jackson as a potential alternative. The 24-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal two years ago, has made a notable impact with 30 goals in 80 appearances. However, Chelsea’s recent additions to their attacking lineup, including Liam Delap and a £60 million agreement for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro, have cast uncertainty over Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge.
Duncan Castles said: “Mikel Arteta last season wanted to work with a tight squad, a small squad, because he thought that would give him the optimum chance of winning the Premier League, it proved to be wrong, a whole host of injuries and also suspension issues. He’s changed his stance and wants a big squad and they’re going about it in all kinds of areas. Viktor Gyokeres has basically told Sporting he’s not going to play or train for them again unless they let him go at the price of €60 million plus €10m in bonuses that was agreed at the end of last season’s transfer window, big fight with the president there. He is one of four candidates to be the new striker at Arsenal. Benjamin Sesko has been a key figure in their list of targets. One of the issues is Sesko has been asking for a release clause to be added to a contract that he would sign with Arsenal, which is something that Arsenal are not keen on for obvious reasons. Ollie Watkins… Arsenal explored signing him in January, Aston Villa said, ‘No, you will not be taking our key forward at that point.’ But Watkins, I’m told, would be open to a move to Arsenal.”
The pursuit of a new striker is a priority for Arsenal as they aim to strengthen their squad depth. Mikel Arteta’s change in strategy, from a compact squad to a larger roster, reflects his ambition to tackle the challenges faced last season due to injuries and suspensions. Viktor Gyokeres, who is currently in a standoff with Sporting over a potential move, and Benjamin Sesko, who has contractual demands, are among the top targets for the Gunners. Additionally, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins remains a viable option, with the player reportedly open to a move to North London.
Arsenal’s interest in Jackson highlights their proactive approach in the transfer market, as they seek to enhance their chances of competing for the Premier League title. The potential acquisition of Jackson could provide the Gunners with a versatile attacking option, especially if they are unable to secure their primary targets.