The future of Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson appears increasingly uncertain as his season-long loan at Bayern Munich struggles to gain momentum, with his agent now fuelling speculation of a potential move to Italy.
Loan Struggles in Munich Cast Doubt on Permanent Deal
Nicolas Jackson's switch to the Bundesliga giants has not unfolded as planned. Initially agreed as a loan with an obligation to buy for a fee nearing £60 million, the deal has reverted to a straight loan after certain conditions failed to be met. The 24-year-old forward has found game time limited, making 21 appearances across all competitions but starting only five of his 12 Bundesliga outings, scoring five goals and providing three assists.
His stint at Stamford Bridge, which showed promise initially, took a downturn following two significant red cards – one against Newcastle United and another in the FIFA Club World Cup. This prompted former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca to sanction his temporary exit last summer, with Jackson reportedly keen only on a move to Bayern.
Agent's Comments Open Door to Serie A Interest
Speaking to renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Jackson's representative, Ali Barat, has now stirred the pot regarding what comes next. "Italian top clubs wanted him even before the Chelsea move, and last summer as well," Barat revealed. He confirmed his client's singular focus was on Bayern at the time, but added a telling line about the future: "One day playing in Italy? For sure he's attracted by Italian football."
These comments explicitly confirm longstanding interest from elite Serie A sides and position Italy as a plausible destination should his Bayern chapter close. With the pre-agreed purchase clause now void, Chelsea's leverage in any permanent negotiation is reduced, potentially making a cut-price deal more likely if they wish to move him on.
Could a Bayern Stay Still Be Possible?
Despite his peripheral role, a permanent stay in Germany is not completely off the table. Jackson is currently deputising for the prolific Harry Kane, and Bayern manager Vincent Kompany has recently praised his development. Kompany highlighted the positive training relationship between the two strikers, noting Jackson is benefiting from working with Kane.
With Kane now 32, the Bavarian club may yet view the younger Jackson as a long-term project and a potential successor. However, any move would likely involve renegotiating a fee significantly lower than the original £60 million obligation. The situation is expected to resolve in the summer, with no indication Bayern will seek an early termination of the loan in the January window.
For now, the Chelsea-owned forward remains in a state of limbo, with his performances in the second half of the season set to determine whether his future lies in Munich, London, or potentially in a new challenge in Italy.
