Chelsea Intensify Exit Negotiations for Star Duo Nkunku and Jackson
Chelsea have been presented with fresh offers for both Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson as the club seeks to revamp their attacking options, according to recent reports.
The Blues have already brought in Liam Delap, João Pedro and Jamie Gittens during this transfer window, with promising winger Estêvão also finalizing his switch from Palmeiras, and intentions remain to secure both RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons and Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho for the roster.
However, before pursuing any additional acquisitions, Chelsea needs to complete several departures. Nkunku is broadly anticipated to exit and, following Bayern Munich's unsuccessful loan attempt, additional discussions with Leipzig have taken place.
The Athletic reports that talks between both clubs are centered on a permanent transfer, while The Guardian notes there is optimism from Leipzig's perspective that a deal can be struck, with Nkunku receptive to rejoining his previous team.
Interest in Nkunku exists from other quarters—Inter are mentioned as potential suitors—and Chelsea will aim to increase the Frenchman's valuation as they prepare to channel those proceeds toward Simons. The Telegraph goes so far as to claim a transaction for Simons has already been "arranged" between both parties.
Jackson, meanwhile, has attracted attention from Aston Villa and his previous Villarreal boss Unai Emery. The Villans are reportedly unable to satisfy Chelsea's valuation, understood to exceed £60 million ($81 million), but are investigating the possibility of an initial loan arrangement.
Chelsea prefer not to consider loan proposals but might be persuaded by a deal featuring an obligation to make the transfer permanent. The Blues have consistently maintained that Jackson isn't actively being sold and would be welcomed back into Enzo Maresca's team if appropriate offers for his services don't materialize.
Simons and Garnacho represent Chelsea's favored alternatives for the duo, though discussions with United regarding the Argentine winger remain incomplete. He carries a £50 million price tag and reports indicate Chelsea are seeking to pay approximately half that amount.