Chelsea Boss Maresca Open to Potential Jackson Exit Amid Newcastle Interest

Enzo Maresca has admitted that Nicolas Jackson’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain as the summer transfer window continues, leaving the door open for a potential departure, Sport360NG reports.

The 24-year-old striker has reportedly attracted interest from Newcastle United, who are in the market for a new forward after Manchester United moved ahead of them in the race to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig.

Chelsea, who signed Jackson from Villarreal for £32 million in 2023, are said to be seeking at least double that amount should they decide to let him go.

Speaking about Jackson’s future, Maresca said: “When the window is open, anything can happen, for better or worse. That includes Nico’s situation.”

The Blues have bolstered their attacking options with the arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap. Pedro joined from Brighton for an initial £55 million and made an instant impact during the Club World Cup, scoring three times in as many matches, including a goal in the final against Paris Saint-Germain. Delap, signed for £30 million from Ipswich, also featured prominently during the US tour.

Jackson’s own Club World Cup outing was marred by a red card in the group-stage win over Flamengo. However, Chelsea’s valuation of over £65 million is based on his output, 10 goals and five assists in the Premier League last season, following a strong debut year in which he scored 14 times and provided five assists across all competitions. He signed a long-term deal in September 2024, tying him to the club until 2033.

Injury Concern for Colwill

Meanwhile, Maresca confirmed that defender Levi Colwill picked up an injury during training on Monday.

“It happened late in the session,” Maresca revealed. “He felt something, and we’ll need to assess him further to know how long he’ll be out. I spoke to him and reminded him how crucial he was to our achievements last season.”

Colwill was a regular starter in the Premier League last term, featuring in 35 of Chelsea’s 38 matches.

On a more positive note, Wesley Fofana is edging closer to a return from a hamstring issue. Although he won’t be involved in upcoming friendlies against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan, the defender is expected to be fit for Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on August 17.