Bayern Munich have confirmed that Nicolas Jackson will return to Chelsea at the conclusion of his loan spell this summer. The decision comes despite reported interest from Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany, who had hoped to retain the 24-year-old forward’s services.
According to Lothar Matthäus, a Bayern Munich and Germany legend, the club ultimately deemed the €65 million purchase option too costly. Matthäus revealed this information on the Sky90 – die Fußballdebatte program, stating that Kompany had internally expressed his desire to keep Jackson, but only at a price Chelsea were unlikely to accept.
Jackson joined Bayern on a season-long loan in August 2023, following a relatively short spell at Chelsea after arriving from Villarreal the previous summer. He initially struggled for consistent form and goals in the Premier League, but has found a more regular role in Kompany’s system in Bavaria.
During his time with Bayern, Jackson has made 33 appearances across all competitions, scoring 10 goals. This represents a significant improvement in his goalscoring output compared to his first season at Chelsea, where he scored 14 goals in 35 appearances. His performances have reportedly impressed Kompany, who saw him as a valuable asset in the Bayern attack.
Chelsea will now reassess Jackson’s situation upon his return to Stamford Bridge. The club are undergoing a period of transition under new ownership, and the forward may be given another opportunity to prove his worth in London. Bayern Munich will likely pursue alternative attacking options in the upcoming transfer window, seeking a more affordable solution to bolster their forward line. This outcome leaves Kompany searching for another option to lead the line next season, while Jackson’s future remains uncertain.
