Nicolas Jackson has arrived at Chelsea with a big reputation.
Despite the Blues’ striker woes in recent seasons, his recent efforts for Villarreal will surely give fans some cause for optimism.
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The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on an eight-year deal at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea continue to overhaul their squad.
Jackson had been linked with a move to Bournemouth in January, but the Cherries pulled out of a deal due to a hamstring issue.
After the move failed to materialise, Villarreal boss Quique Setien said: “He has extraordinary potential. We are going to boost him so that in the summer he is worth twice as much.”
Fast forward five months and the Senegal international is now on the books at one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Chelsea have paidd slightly over his £30million release clause, but it could still prove to be a bargain given his recent efforts.
The first half of the 2022/23 season saw Jackson net just two goals in La Liga before he missed eight games as a result of a hip problem.
However, the final weeks of the campaign saw him score ten goals since the beginning of April.
Six of Jackson’s strikes came in a run of four consecutive games as Villarreal went on to secure a 5th place finish.
His record was better than that of Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema, who netted eight Spanish top flight goals from April onwards before his summer move to Al Ittihad.
Jackson finished the campaign with 12 goals and four assists in La Liga, with an extra two contributions coming in other competitions.
The Premier League now awaits him as Chelsea look to swiftly brush aside last season’s dismal shortcomings.
Christopher Nkunku was the Blues’ first arrival of Mauricio Pochettino era, with the Frenchman joining from RB Leipzig.
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Both he and Jackson could soon be joined by Moises Caicedo as Chelsea continue their efforts to sign the Brighton star.
Pochettino’s tenure as Blues boss is now officially underway as the club begin their preparations for pre-season.
A tour in the United States will given the squad and other potential new signings the chance to prove their worth before the Premier League returns.
Fans are set to keep a close eye on Jackson over the next few weeks as they eagerly await the end of Chelsea’s striker curse.
