Arsenal Consider Surprise Move for Chelsea Striker

Arsenal are reportedly exploring a shock move for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson as they continue their search for a new striker this summer.

According to The Times journalist Duncan Castles, the Gunners have added Jackson to their shortlist of options in case their pursuit of top targets Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško fails to materialise.

Mikel Arteta’s side are determined to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season, having once again finished second in the Premier League. The club has been linked with several high-profile names including Gyökeres, Šeško, Ollie Watkins, and Alexander Isak. However, with competition and valuations complicating those moves, alternative options are now being assessed.

Jackson, 24, joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 and has since scored 30 goals in 80 appearances across all competitions. Despite his contributions, Chelsea have continued to add attacking depth, most recently securing a deal for Liam Delap, suggesting Jackson may no longer be central to their long-term plans.

Reports indicate that Arsenal could make a formal move if they fail to secure their primary striker targets. The potential transfer could be valued at around £55 million, though it’s unclear whether Chelsea would be willing to negotiate with a direct rival.

This development underlines Arsenal’s urgency in finding a clinical forward to complement their attacking line, particularly with Gabriel Jesus facing ongoing fitness concerns and Eddie Nketiah’s future uncertain.

Should a deal progress, Jackson’s pace and Premier League experience could offer Arteta a valuable option in the final third.