Napoli open talks with Chelsea over a deal for out-of-favour striker Nicolas Jackson

Napoli have initiated discussions with Chelsea regarding a potential transfer for striker Nicolas Jackson. The Serie A club has reached out to the Premier League side to ascertain the terms required to sign the Senegalese international. Jackson is among several forwards Napoli are contemplating. Confirmed contacts between Napoli and Chelsea exist, although a formal bid from the Italian club for the 25-year-old striker has not been reported yet.

Chelsea appraises Jackson at approximately £60 million, which might dissuade other interested clubs. The Blues are aiming to capitalize on Jackson's value and have proposed him to several other teams, including Atletico Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa. However, none of these clubs have proceeded with a definitive offer to sign Jackson, making Napoli's involvement significant for Chelsea as they seek to generate genuine competition for the Senegalese striker.

Additionally, Napoli and Chelsea are concurrently engaged in another transfer. Napoli have agreed to take centre-back Benoit Badiashile on a season-long loan, including a £2.6m fee and an option to purchase for around £23m. A subsequent negotiation involving Jackson may now unfold. However, Napoli must first free up space in their squad and budget.

The club is exploring potential exits, such as those of Noa Lang and Lorenzo Lucca, which could influence their capacity to pursue another forward. Jackson's future has become increasingly uncertain after he was excluded from Chelsea's final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad. He has also been training separately from the rest of the Chelsea first-team squad while his future is being addressed.

Joao Pedro scored twice in that match and concluded the summer with seven goals, but it was never in question that he would be Chelsea's starting striker for the upcoming season. Atletico Madrid are monitoring Jackson's situation as they strive to retain Julian Alvarez away from Barcelona. They might revert to pursuing Jackson if Alvarez departs for Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa have been assessing striker options in anticipation of Ollie Watkins' potential departure.