Napoli have opened talks with Chelsea over a potential deal for Senegal striker Nicolas Jackson as the Serie A champions look to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer deadline.
Sky in Italy reports that Napoli have now made contact with Chelsea after identifying Jackson as one of the forwards who could be available during the closing stages of the summer window.
The discussions remain at an early stage and there is no agreement between the clubs. However, Napoli’s enquiry has now developed into talks as they assess whether a deal can be structured for the 25-year-old.
Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge has been uncertain throughout the summer.
He spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich and has returned to Chelsea with considerable competition for places in attack. Chelsea are prepared to consider his departure and value the Senegal international at around £65 million.
Jackson is also among a group of Chelsea players currently training away from the main first-team squad while their futures are resolved. Liam Delap, Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo are among the others in that group.
Napoli have been searching the Premier League market for attacking reinforcements and Jackson is not their only option.
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee and Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus have also featured on their shortlist. Reports suggest Napoli may need to complete an outgoing transfer before committing to another significant attacking signing.
Nevertheless, Jackson’s availability has encouraged the Italian club to begin negotiations.
The striker initially joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 and became an important part of the Blues’ attack during his first two seasons in England. He later moved to Bayern on loan for the 2025/26 campaign.
Chelsea’s attacking picture has changed considerably since then. The arrival of additional forwards has created a surplus of strikers, with Jackson, Delap and Marc Guiu all potentially available before the September 1 deadline.
Napoli could now provide Jackson with an opportunity to continue his career in Serie A.
The Senegal international’s pace, mobility and experience at Premier League and Champions League level would give Napoli another established option in attack.
For Chelsea, a permanent sale could also generate significant funds while helping reduce the size of their squad.
There is still work to be done before a transfer becomes likely, particularly given Chelsea’s £65m valuation. But Napoli’s decision to open talks represents a significant step beyond their earlier enquiry.
Jackson is now one of the strikers to watch as Napoli attempt to complete more business before the transfer window closes.
