“I regret not signing him” – Bournemouth owner regret not signing 22-years-old New Chelsea star
Chelsea’s acquisition of Nicolas Jackson earlier this summer has proven to be a masterstroke. The Senegalese forward, who showcased his talent throughout pre-season and the initial three Premier League fixtures, is living up to expectations.
Jackson, at just 22, made a £30 million switch from Villarreal to Stamford Bridge, securing an impressive eight-year contract with the Blues. His performance in La Liga last season, with 12 goals in 26 appearances, including nine in the last eight matches, had garnered significant interest. However, Chelsea’s persistence paid off, ensuring they won the race for his signature.
Interestingly, Bournemouth had contemplated signing Jackson during the January transfer window. Unfortunately, a hip injury setback in early 2023 led to a failed medical test, scuttling the move. Now, fully recovered, the young forward is flourishing at Chelsea, adding depth and quality to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad.
In a recent interview, Cherries owner Bill Foley expressed his regret about missing out on Jackson in January. He discussed the nuances of player acquisition in the Premier League compared to American sports, highlighting the league’s flexibility and ongoing negotiations with players and agents. When asked about any attempts to hijack deals, Foley couldn’t help but mention Nicolas Jackson, who had recently found the net for Chelsea, stating, “Well… Nicolas Jackson. Scored a goal last night, of course! We tried to get him back this year, we had him last year. I believe we made a mistake. He didn’t pass his medical, but actually, he played much sooner than we thought he would.” Now, Chelsea’s decision to secure the 22-year-old’s services has been validated, as he shines as the Blues’ new attacking focal point in the early stages of the season.
