Bayern Munich Lands Chelsea Star Nicolas Jackson in Blockbuster Loan Move That Shatters Records
Bayern Munich have finalized the acquisition of Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson through an initial loan arrangement, featuring an option for a permanent move.
Both clubs reached a loan agreement the previous week, however, as Jackson was arriving in Munich for his medical examination, Chelsea withdrew from the deal following Liam Delap's hamstring injury that may sideline him for an extended duration.
Though instructed to return to Chelsea, Jackson stayed in Munich alongside his representative, hoping to resurrect the transfer. Chelsea insisted on a permanent arrangement but ultimately accepted a loan structure featuring a mandatory buy clause tied to match appearances.
Jackson has now put pen to paper on his contract, completing what is considered the most costly loan transfer in football history, with the £14.2 million ($19.2 million) fee representing a record for a single-season loan deal.
"I'm thrilled to join this incredible institution. Bayern ranks among the world's elite clubs. Everyone recognizes the legendary players who have represented this club and understands its commitment to ultimate success. I have ambitious objectives and aspirations here and will dedicate everything to help Bayern secure additional trophies," Jackson stated in the official announcement.
"Nicolas will bring a fresh element to our offensive strategy. He operates across multiple positions. He possesses tremendous pace, poses a threat in scoring positions and seeks opportunities to penetrate defensive lines for the team's benefit. He's also a welcoming, upbeat individual who will integrate seamlessly into our squad," sporting director Christoph Freund commented.
Bayern's buy-out option for Jackson is set at £56.2 million, bringing the total package value to £70.4 million.
Chelsea invested £32 million to acquire Jackson from Villarreal in 2023 and experienced two successful seasons with the Senegalese forward, who accumulated 30 goals and 12 assists across 81 appearances during his stint at Stamford Bridge.
Regrettably for Jackson, Chelsea management determined the need to strengthen their attacking options this summer. Delap was brought in from Ipswich Town for £30 million, followed by a £60 million agreement to secure João Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Given Delap's potential lengthy absence, Chelsea have also brought back former Barcelona forward Marc Guiu from his loan spell at Sunderland.