Shocking move: Manchester United reportedly eye Chelsea s Nicolas Jackson

Manchester United is reportedly casting a watchful eye over Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, as the Senegalese international assesses his role amidst a flurry of new attacking arrivals at Stamford Bridge. The London club's recent acquisitions of strikers Liam Delap and João Pedro have intensified competition for places, potentially opening the door for a move.

João Pedro, a £60 million signing from Brighton & Hove Albion, made an immediate impact by scoring three goals during Chelsea's victorious Club World Cup campaign. Delap, who joined last month from Ipswich Town for £30 million, also found the net in a group stage win. In contrast, Jackson failed to score in the tournament and received a two-match ban for a challenge on Flamengo defender Lucas Ayrton.

Despite these developments, Chelsea is not actively looking to offload Jackson, who cost them £32 million from Villarreal two years ago. The West London club still sees potential in the 24-year-old and expects him to receive significant minutes this season, especially with Chelsea competing on multiple fronts, including the Champions League. They are keen to maintain strong squad depth in attack, a luxury they lacked during the latter half of last season, and new manager Enzo Maresca is likely to rotate his strikers.

However, Jackson is not considered "untouchable," suggesting that a substantial offer could persuade Chelsea to sell. Manchester United is among several clubs monitoring the situation, with AC Milan and Aston Villa also reportedly interested. Chelsea has also continued their spending spree with the recent £48.5 million acquisition of winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.

United's interest in Jackson stems from their urgent need to bolster their attack. The Red Devils scored a meager 44 Premier League goals last season, their worst tally since 1973-74, a season that ended in relegation.

The club has already moved to address their goal-scoring woes by signing Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £62.5 million last month. United is also currently in talks with Brentford for forward Bryan Mbeumo, who is valued at a similar price by the Bees.

While United is actively pursuing new talent, they have so far struggled to offload players who wish to leave, including high-profile names such as Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Alejandro Garnacho. Despite this, the club is set to benefit from approximately £18 million through sell-on clauses in the contracts of former players like Anthony Elanga, Maxi Oyedele, and Álvaro Carreras, the latter having recently completed a £37 million move to Real Madrid from Benfica.