Roberto Di Matteo believes Nicolas Jackson could attract significant attention in the transfer market this summer, with the former Chelsea boss backing a potential switch to Manchester United.
Jackson made the move to Stamford Bridge from Villarreal in 2023, signing for £32 million.
In his first two seasons with the Blues, the Senegal international has netted 30 times across 81 appearances.
However, his time in west London has been marred by inconsistency, with his finishing in front of goal often drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.
With Chelsea recently welcoming Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to their attacking ranks, questions have resurfaced about Jackson’s long-term role in the squad.
The club is reportedly open to selling the 24-year-old if they receive an offer in the region of £80 million before the transfer window shuts.
While a move back to La Liga remains a possibility, Newcastle United and Manchester United have both been linked with the forward.
However, reports suggest that Chelsea’s valuation may prove to be a stumbling block for the Red Devils, who have now narrowed their shortlist to include just Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
Despite that, Di Matteo, a Champions League-winning manager with Chelsea, sees a potential future for Jackson at Old Trafford.
“Nicolas Jackson will have a few clubs looking at him. He’s a very good striker. He scores goals and he’s got some experience now in England as well,” Di Matteo told BetVictor (via Metro).
“I think he would have some clubs chasing him and he might want to go somewhere where he’s maybe more wanted than at Chelsea.
“I could see him joining Manchester United, and there are other clubs that are looking for him. Aston Villa could be one if they lose Morgan Rogers.
“There are a number of clubs, but he might go back to Spain as well, who knows? Chelsea are in a great position that they are not forced to sell.
“They have a number of players that are on the market and they can raise some funds from there, so they are in no hurry to sell.
“They are in a good financial position, so it really depends on what clubs are prepared to pay.”
Although Chelsea are reportedly seeking as much as £100 million for Jackson, Di Matteo’s comments suggest that the striker’s future could hinge more on desire and fit than just financial offers.
