Manchester United Hold Talks to Sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea After Missing Out on Top Striker Targets

Manchester United are turning their attention to Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as they continue their difficult search for a new centre forward this summer. According to reports, the Red Devils have already held talks with Jackson’s agent, Ali Barat, as they look to find a strong addition to their attack.

United have found it hard to sign a striker in this transfer window. Several of their top targets have either rejected their offers or chosen to join other clubs.

Young forward Liam Delap, who was on United’s radar, decided to move to Chelsea instead of Old Trafford. Another target, Hugo Ekitike, has picked Liverpool over Manchester United, despite a late push from the Manchester side to bring him in.

Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has also been approached by United. The club is said to be close to agreeing a fee with the Portuguese champions. However, the Swedish international appears to prefer a move to Arsenal, who are still negotiating their own deal with Sporting.

With these setbacks, Manchester United are now looking at other options. Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa and Randal Kolo Muani are among the names being discussed. But the latest focus has shifted to Nicolas Jackson, who could become available at Chelsea.

Jackson has been Chelsea’s main striker for the past two seasons. The 23-year-old Senegalese forward has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced criticism for inconsistency in front of goal. Now, with new signings at Chelsea, Jackson could find himself slipping down the pecking order.

Liam Delap, who recently joined the Blues, made a fast impact at the Club World Cup. Joao Pedro, another recent arrival from Brighton, has also impressed early on. This leaves Jackson’s place in doubt, and Manchester United are ready to take advantage.

Talks Already Underway

According to BBC Sport, Manchester United have spoken to Jackson’s agent, Ali Barat, about a possible transfer. The discussions show that United are seriously considering him as a potential new signing.

🚨Manchester United have held talks with Nicolas Jackson’s representative Ali Barat over a potential move. A lot needs to happen in terms of outgoings for United but one that could happen in the right circumstances. Worth noting Chelsea have long-term interest in Garnacho. pic.twitter.com/SZhRHjMKoE

— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) July 20, 2025

However, it’s clear that a lot still needs to happen before a deal can go through. The club must first make room in their squad by offloading some players. One of those players is Marcus Rashford, who is close to sealing a surprise move to Barcelona.

There are also reports that Juventus are making progress in their move for Jadon Sancho, while Antony and Alejandro Garnacho could also leave the club. Chelsea have kept an eye on Garnacho since January and remain interested in bringing him to Stamford Bridge.

If United can move some of these players, it will free up space and funds to bring in someone like Jackson.

Jackson’s Situation at Chelsea

Despite being Chelsea’s only main striker last season, Jackson now faces real competition. Chelsea’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, is clearly planning to reshape the attack. If Delap and Joao Pedro continue to perform well, Jackson might have to settle for a bench role or even be pushed further down as the third-choice forward.

That situation might make Jackson more open to a transfer, especially if he sees a chance to play more regularly at Manchester United.

Manchester United’s summer transfer business has been far from smooth. Missing out on top targets like Delap, Ekitike, and possibly Gyokeres has left the club looking for other ways to strengthen their attack.

Nicolas Jackson is not without talent. He has Premier League experience and is still young, with room to grow. If United can sort out their outgoing transfers, Jackson could be a smart addition.