Real Madrid Eye Chelsea Forward Nicolas Jackson Amid Barcelona Interest – Spanish Report Claims
Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, looking to outmaneuver long-time rivals Barcelona in the race for his signature, according to reports from Spain. TEAMtalk has examined whether this transfer could realistically happen and how it would fit into Los Blancos’ current strategy under head coach Xabi Alonso.
So far this summer, Madrid have been active in the transfer market, already securing the services of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alvaro Carreras, and Dean Huijsen. Franco Mastantuono is also expected to join once he turns 18 later this month.
Alonso is reportedly still in the market for a new centre-back, with Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and Arsenal’s William Saliba both linked to the club. In addition, there are suggestions that he wants to reinforce the midfield ahead of the new season.
Fresh reports from the Spanish press indicate that Madrid are now targeting Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson as a new option in attack. Barcelona have also been linked with the Senegalese striker, viewing him as a long-term heir to Robert Lewandowski. This interest was recently echoed by CaughtOffside.
According to the outlet E-Noticies, Madrid president Florentino Pérez is keen on bringing Jackson to the Santiago Bernabéu. Their supposed plan is to hijack Barcelona’s move and add the forward as a more experienced No. 9 option to complement the youthful duo of Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia.
The report suggests Madrid are skeptical of relying solely on their emerging attacking talents and want someone who can contribute immediately. Barcelona, on the other hand, are said to be considering a loan approach for Jackson.
Is Jackson a Fit for Madrid’s Plans?
Since arriving at Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023, Jackson has had an up-and-down tenure, recording 30 goals and 12 assists across 81 appearances. Despite some inconsistency and criticism regarding his finishing, the 24-year-old has earned praise for his determination and work rate.
TEAMtalk sources suggest that Manchester United and Newcastle United are also monitoring the striker’s situation. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is believed to be targeting Jackson as a partner or replacement for Alexander Isak, who could be headed to Liverpool. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is another name on Newcastle’s list.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are reportedly exploring a potential swap deal involving Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho. Chelsea, however, have placed a £60 million (€68.7m/$79.7m) valuation on the striker.
Madrid’s Stance on Signing a New Striker
Despite the rumors, Real Madrid may be reluctant to meet Chelsea’s asking price. With Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior as key forwards, and young prospects Endrick and Garcia already on board, a big-money striker signing seems unlikely.
Gonzalo Garcia, in particular, made headlines with his performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he netted four goals and provided an assist in six games. Endrick, meanwhile, is expected to remain with the Madrid squad for the 2025/26 season, having expressed no interest in going out on loan, as per ESPN.
Spanish publication AS also claims that Madrid have no current intention of signing another striker. Although Alonso initially sought a physical forward in the mold of Joselu after taking over from Carlo Ancelotti, Garcia’s development has reportedly convinced him to prioritize internal options.
Other Headlines Around Real Madrid
In related news, a Madrid attacker has reportedly agreed personal terms with Liverpool, who are preparing a significant bid. Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konaté has responded to a contract proposal from Liverpool, as Madrid weigh their chances of signing him. Additionally, Manchester United are said to be interested in a Madrid squad player, whose openness to a move to Old Trafford has come to light.
