Chelsea Halt Nicolas Jackson Transfer to Bayern Munich
Chelsea have reversed their agreement with Bayern Munich for a season-long loan deal with an option to buy for striker Nicolas Jackson, reportedly worth a total package of €80million (£69m; $93.5m). The reversal came after Bayern had already permitted Jackson to travel to Germany for a medical examination on Saturday.
Bayern’s Director of Sport Max Eberl confirmed the change of heart, stating, “Chelsea have informed us that they want the player back – after we had reached an agreement yesterday and were allowed to conduct the medical. Now the situation is that the boy is in Munich and we have to send him back. That’s the current state of affairs, I can’t look into the future.”
The sudden shift follows an injury to Chelsea summer signing Cole Palmer during Saturday’s match against Fulham. Palmer, who joined from Ipswich Town for £30million ($40m), was substituted in the 14th minute with a hamstring injury.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged the team’s limited striking options following Palmer’s injury, stating, “When you have two strikers it is enough, when one of them is injured for weeks it is not enough.” He anticipates Palmer will be sidelined for up to eight weeks.
Jackson, 24, had previously been deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea following the arrivals of Palmer and Joao Pedro.He was left out of the squad for pre-season friendlies as Chelsea explored potential transfer options. However,the club reportedly maintained Jackson’s integration with the first team throughout the process.
According to The Athletic’s Chelsea Writer Simon Johnson, the decision to recall Jackson is a pragmatic one, ensuring Chelsea have sufficient striking depth, especially with the upcoming demands of Champions League competition. Johnson notes Jackson has a proven track record with 24 Premier League goals in two seasons and is already familiar with maresca’s tactics.
