Arsenal have declined an opportunity to sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea, with the Senegalese striker now expected to join either Aston Villa or Newcastle United. Despite registering 19 goal contributions last season, the 24-year-old is no longer part of Chelsea’s long-term plans. The Gunners, already reinforced with Viktor Gyokeres this summer, have opted not to pursue a deal.
With Arsenal stepping aside, interest in Jackson is growing across the Premier League. Both Unai Emery and Eddie Howe are monitoring the situation, with Chelsea ready to cash in following their summer recruitment.
Jackson becomes surplus to requirements at Chelsea
Jackson arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2023 following a breakthrough season at Villarreal. He featured in 37 matches last term, scoring 13 goals and providing six assists across all competitions. However, his performances have not convinced Chelsea’s hierarchy, and his role has been diminished by the arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.
The decision to offload Jackson comes as Chelsea seek to refine their attacking options under Enzo Maresca. The club has informed the striker’s camp that he is free to leave, prompting approaches to clubs across the Premier League.
Arsenal focused on Gyokeres, not Jackson
Despite being offered Jackson’s services, Arsenal swiftly turned down the proposal. The Gunners have already signed Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP to fill the centre-forward role and are focused on refining their tactical setup around the Swedish striker. With Noni Madueke and Kepa Arrizabalaga also arriving from Chelsea, Arsenal are not looking to add another attacker from their London rivals.
Sporting director Andrea Berta has made it clear that squad additions will now be highly targeted, with wide positions and attacking midfield the priorities before the window closes. Jackson, while available, does not fit those criteria.
Aston Villa and Newcastle explore move
Unai Emery is reportedly the most eager to secure Jackson’s signature. The Aston Villa boss previously coached the forward during his Villarreal days and is seeking depth behind Ollie Watkins as the club prepares for a congested European calendar.
Newcastle United are also watching closely. With speculation around Alexander Isak’s future and potential interest from Liverpool, the Magpies are lining up alternatives. Jackson is one of several strikers under review, and informal discussions with his representatives have already taken place.
What’s next for Arsenal?
Arsenal’s decision to pass on Jackson reflects the clarity in their summer planning. With Viktor Gyokeres already installed as the number nine and further reinforcements expected out wide, Mikel Arteta is shaping a squad with tactical precision. The Gunners are not short of attacking depth, and the focus now remains on adding a direct winger with Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze still under consideration.
As Jackson looks set for a move elsewhere in the Premier League, Arsenal continue to build around their chosen core. For Berta and Arteta, the priority is quality over quantity and the Gyokeres decision underlines that shift.
