Manchester United in Shock Talks for Chelsea’s £100m Star, Face Major Transfer Hurdle

Man United Eye Shock Move for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson Amid Financial Hurdles
By Yaseen Zaman | Updated: 16:49 BST, 20 July 2025

Manchester United have reportedly held preliminary talks over a surprise move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. The 24-year-old Senegalese forward, signed by Chelsea for £32m from Villarreal in 2023, has fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap. However, the Blues are demanding a staggering £100m fee, complicating any potential deal.

Financial Obstacles for United
United’s financial constraints mean they must offload players to fund a move. Last month, manager Ruben Amorim bolstered his attack with Matheus Cunha (£62.5m from Wolves) and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo (£71m). But after scoring just 44 Premier League goals in 2024–25 — their lowest-ever tally — United remain desperate for firepower.

[Image suggestion: Nicolas Jackson in Chelsea training gear, looking focused.]
Caption: Chelsea’s £100m valuation of Jackson could prove a major stumbling block for United.

Garnacho Swap Deal Potential
Chelsea’s long-term interest in Alejandro Garnacho might offer a solution. The Argentine winger, who clashed with Amorim after being benched during the Europa League final, is reportedly available for £70m. A swap deal involving Garnacho and Jackson — potentially with additional cash — could be explored. Earlier discussions in January included Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku as part of a player exchange.

[Image suggestion: Garnacho celebrating a goal for United.]
Caption: Garnacho’s uncertain future at United could pave the way for a swap deal.

Jackson’s Mixed Chelsea Tenure
Jackson has scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for Chelsea, but his finishing has drawn criticism. Since 2023, only Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Harry Kane have missed more “big chances” in Europe’s top leagues. Despite inconsistency, his work rate and potential keep suitors interested.

[Image suggestion: Jackson celebrating a goal for Chelsea.]
Caption: Jackson’s clinical edge remains a concern despite flashes of brilliance.

Competition and United’s Attacking Exodus
AC Milan are also circling for Jackson, while United face an attacking crisis. Marcus Rashford is close to joining Barcelona on loan, with his £315k-per-week wages fully covered by the Catalan club. Jadon Sancho and Antony are also expected to depart, leaving United’s frontline threadbare.

[Image suggestion: Rashford in action for United.]
Caption: Rashford’s impending Barcelona loan leaves United short of attacking options.

The Verdict
United’s pursuit hinges on player sales and Chelsea’s willingness to negotiate. With Jackson eager for minutes and Chelsea financially resilient, this transfer saga looks set to rumble on. A Garnacho swap could be key, but at £100m, the Blues hold all the cards.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

Images: Getty/Shutterstock (conceptual placement)
Word count: 640