Enzo Maresca issues Nicolas Jackson transfer update as Chelsea stance perfectly clear

Enzo Maresca has confirmed Nicolas Jackson can leave Chelsea this summer with the striker's future seemingly destined to be away from Stamford Bridge.

The 24-year-old forward has been an integral part of the Blues' first XI since signing from Villarreal in the summer of 2023 but the arrivals of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro earlier in this transfer window has raised question marks over his future. Chelsea are in no rush to sell Jackson, football.london understands, and would be happy if he stayed in SW6 but equally they will not stand in his way if they receive what they deem to be an appropriate offer.

Jackson was left out of the matchday squads for the two pre-season friendlies last week and will not be involved in the opening weekend of the new campaign when Chelsea welcome Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge. The Senegal international picked up a straight red card against Newcastle United in the latter stages of last season and will serve the final game of his suspension.

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Either way, Jackson would have been unlikely to make the squad given the situation behind the scenes regarding his future. "He is training with us but he is not going to be involved," said Maresca when asked about the situation with Jackson on Friday morning.

"You know the situation already. The transfer window is open, he can leave and we will see."

Joao Pedro and Delap, meanwhile, are set to make their Premier League debuts for Chelsea. Both impressed during the wins against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan recently, with the two battling it out with one another for the No.9 spot this weekend.

Both forwards arrived after playing in the Premier League and this is something that could well make them settle in easier and quicker than those who come from overseas. Maresca was also quick to note that he is expecting another extremely long and intense campaign for his players - hinting his squad will be stretched as the season goes on.

"For sure it is better when players arrive from the Premier League and not from abroad so that is a big help," the Chelsea head coach replied when asked about Joao Pedro and Delap.

"I am very excited to have them and I am very excited about the ones from last season too. This season will be very long again with the Premier League, the Champions League and domestic cups so that is exciting."