Chelsea Weighs New Striker Signing Amid Nicolas Jackson Transfer Dispute

Chelsea initially allowed striker Nicolas Jackson to travel to Germany for a loan medical with Bayern Munich, but revoked the move following a hamstring injury to Liam Delap, leaving Jackson frustrated and forced to return to London. The club now does not intend to loan Jackson out but could entertain a permanent transfer if they sign a replacement striker. Chelsea is actively exploring permanent striker options with multiple enquiries made, including for Sporting CP's 20-year-old Danish forward Conrad Harder, who is viewed as a high-potential talent. Head coach Enzo Maresca is preparing to keep Jackson in the squad for the time being, along with other attacking options like Alejandro Garnacho, while monitoring potential offers ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline. The injury to Delap has forced Chelsea to reconsider their forward line depth and has sparked urgency to secure reinforcements before the window closes. Despite Jackson's displeasure at the canceled loan, Chelsea aims to maintain squad balance amid a busy competitive schedule.