Chelsea's Attack: Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap Set to Depart
Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap look set to be the next casualties of Chelsea’s attacking clear-out, with both forwards expected to leave before the transfer window closes.
Neither player made Xabi Alonso’s matchday squad for the 3-1 win over Real Sociedad on Sunday, a pointed omission that only intensified the noise around their futures. As Alonso shapes his first-team plans, the message is becoming clearer: others will lead the line.
Jackson priced for a Premier League move
Jackson is back at Stamford Bridge after a season on loan at Bayern Munich, but his return already feels temporary. Aston Villa are circling, and Chelsea have put a sizeable price on his head, valuing the Senegal international at around £65m.
That figure reflects both his age and his experience at the top level, yet it also underlines Chelsea’s willingness to cash in if the right bid arrives. For now, he trains at Cobham. On current indications, he will not be there for long.
Delap free to go after flat first season
Delap’s situation is even more stark. Chelsea are prepared to let the 23-year-old leave after a disappointing debut campaign in which he scored just twice in 41 appearances. The club are ready to sanction his exit and listen to offers.
He joined from Ipswich for £30m last summer, a deal that carried clear expectations. The return has not matched the investment, and both parties now appear ready to move on.
Italian side Como have registered their interest, but Delap would rather stay in the Premier League. Everton, Fulham and Nottingham Forest have all been linked, sensing an opportunity to revive a young striker who badly needs a reset.
Alonso backs Pedro and Welbeck
According to Sky Sports, both Jackson and Delap are now “likely” to depart before the window shuts, with Alonso prepared to go into the season with Joao Pedro and Danny Welbeck as his primary options at number nine.
Two forwards edging towards the exit, two firmly in the manager’s plans. Chelsea’s attacking hierarchy is being redrawn in real time – the only question is which club makes the first decisive move.
