Real Madrid Eye Chelsea Forward Nicolas Jackson Amid Barcelona Interest – Spanish Report Claims

In what could become one of the most intriguing transfer battles of the summer, Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, with the Spanish giants looking to outflank bitter rivals Barcelona in securing the Senegalese forward’s signature. According to reports emerging from Spain, the race for Jackson is heating up — and the Santiago Bernabéu could become his next destination.

Real Madrid have already made several high-profile moves this transfer window under new head coach Xabi Alonso, bringing in names like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alvaro Carreras, and Dean Huijsen. The club’s recruitment strategy has clearly emphasized youth, versatility, and long-term planning — with Franco Mastantuono also expected to arrive once he turns 18 later this month.

However, Alonso and club president Florentino Pérez appear keen on adding one more attacker to the mix, and Jackson has emerged as a serious target. While Barcelona were initially considered frontrunners in the pursuit of the Chelsea striker, Real Madrid are now reportedly plotting a hijack, hoping to offer a more immediate and prestigious opportunity to the 24-year-old.

Barcelona, on their part, are believed to be considering Jackson as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. The Polish forward is nearing the twilight of his career, and the Catalan side sees Jackson’s pace, athleticism, and Premier League experience as valuable assets for the future. Spanish outlet E-Noticies claims Madrid are ready to act fast, not only to bolster their own squad but to frustrate a key rival in the process.

Florentino Pérez is said to be particularly keen on the move, reportedly viewing Jackson as an experienced option who could provide balance and competition to Real Madrid’s young frontline — especially with Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia still adjusting to top-tier football. Madrid’s technical staff, however, remain divided on whether such an investment is necessary.

Nicolas Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 for a reported £32 million, and while his time at Stamford Bridge has had its highs and lows, he has managed to tally 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances across all competitions. His work rate and off-the-ball movement have been praised, though questions remain about his finishing consistency at the elite level.

TEAMtalk reports that Jackson has not only attracted interest from Spain but also from within the Premier League. Manchester United and Newcastle United are said to be closely monitoring the striker’s situation, with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe reportedly viewing him as either a partner to, or replacement for, Alexander Isak — who has been linked with Liverpool.

Manchester United are also exploring a potential swap deal involving Jackson and Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho, although such a proposal would depend heavily on Chelsea’s valuation. The Blues are believed to have set Jackson’s asking price at £60 million (€68.7m/$79.7m), a fee that could deter both domestic and foreign suitors — including Real Madrid.

Despite the interest, it remains uncertain whether Real Madrid would be willing to spend big on another striker. The club already boasts an attacking trio that includes Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, and the emerging Brazilian star Endrick. Gonzalo Garcia has also been making headlines with his standout performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he scored four goals and added one assist in six games.

Spanish publication AS has suggested that Madrid are leaning toward internal development rather than another big-name purchase. Head coach Xabi Alonso, initially interested in signing a physical striker in the mold of Joselu, may have changed course after watching Garcia’s rise. The young forward is now expected to have a more prominent role in the 2025/26 campaign.

That said, the allure of snatching a target away from Barcelona and adding proven Premier League talent to the roster may still tempt Madrid’s hierarchy. Much depends on whether Chelsea are open to negotiations, and if Jackson himself is interested in competing for minutes at one of the most stacked attacking lineups in Europe.

Meanwhile, Chelsea may be hesitant to part ways with Jackson, especially if other clubs do not meet their valuation. With Enzo Maresca newly installed as manager, Jackson could still have a significant role to play in the club’s evolving tactical approach, unless an irresistible offer comes through.

For now, the tug-of-war between Real Madrid and Barcelona continues to unfold in the background. Whether this becomes another chapter in the eternal rivalry between the two Spanish powerhouses — or a drawn-out transfer saga that fizzles out — remains to be seen.

Still, if Madrid’s interest turns concrete, Nicolas Jackson could find himself at the heart of a move that shapes both his career and the balance of power in La Liga’s never-ending battle between white and blaugrana.