Chelsea Confirms Jackson, Nkunku Exclusions Amid Transfer Speculation

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku will not feature in the upcoming match against West Ham due to their ongoing transfer situations, despite both players being available and training with the squad. Jackson is attracting interest from clubs including Aston Villa and Newcastle United, with Chelsea valuing him at around £60 million and having recently signed two new strikers, making Jackson and Nkunku surplus to requirements. Maresca indicated that if the players remain at Chelsea by the end of the transfer window, they will rejoin the squad, but he hopes both find moves away for their own happiness and the club's benefit. Meanwhile, players like Ben Chilwell and Raheem Sterling are training separately as they also seek career revivals through transfers. Maresca downplayed concerns about other squad members, such as Wesley Fofana, emphasizing focus on training and match preparation amid the transfer uncertainties. Chelsea is also pursuing new signings, including Xavi Simon and Alejandro Garnacho, adding to the shifting squad dynamics this summer.