Nicolas Jackson is heading back to Stamford Bridge after Bayern Munich decided against turning his loan into a permanent move. Max Eberl confirmed the Senegal international will return to Chelsea after one season in Germany.
Jackson joined Bayern at the start of the season and delivered 10 goals, including three in the Champions League, along with four assists. That return was enough to make him a useful part of the squad, but not enough to persuade Bayern to spend the £58 million needed to sign him permanently.
The move ends a short but productive spell in which Jackson was used mainly as a backup to Harry Kane. Bayern’s decision now opens the door to a scramble for his next step, with Juventus interested in a season-long loan and Fenerbahce and AC Milan both keen on a permanent transfer.
Al-Ahli have also been mentioned as a possible destination, and their interest adds another layer to a market that is already taking shape around the forward. Edouard Mendy, the former Chelsea goalkeeper, captains the Saudi club, which could make it an appealing option if talks advance.
Chelsea now face a straightforward choice of their own: bring Jackson back into the squad or move him on again if the right offer arrives. The source says the club may decide to reintegrate him, especially if it appoints Andoni Iraola, while at least four clubs are understood to be considering negotiations with Chelsea.
