Barcelona will have to pay €126 million to buy Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea

Chelsea forward emerges as top target amid Saudi interest in Polish striker

Barcelona are considering a major move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, should Robert Lewandowski leave the club this summer. However, the financial hurdle is significant: the 24-year-old Senegalese forward is valued at around £100 million (€117 million), equivalent to €126 million at current exchange rates.

According to Fichajes, Barcelona’s management have identified Jackson as a leading candidate to bolster their front line if Lewandowski accepts an offer from Saudi Arabia. The Polish striker is being pursued with what is reportedly the highest bid from the Saudi Pro League this transfer window.

Barcelona’s finances under pressure as Lewandowski decision looms

While Lewandowski has not yet indicated any desire to leave, his future remains uncertain. Despite public statements expressing happiness in Catalonia, Barcelona are preparing for a possible late-window exit, with no official rejection of the Saudi proposal so far.

If a deal materializes, Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson could become a priority for head coach Hansi Flick. But the price tag is steep. As reported by the Daily Mail, Chelsea are holding firm at £100 million, a figure that exceeds Barcelona’s current transfer limits under La Liga’s financial fair play rules.

Jackson’s Chelsea performance draws interest despite inconsistency

Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal, has had mixed performances in the Premier League. In the 2024/25 season, he scored 13 goals and registered six assists in 37 matches. The season prior his debut campaign he recorded 17 goals and six assists in 44 appearances.

Despite these ups and downs, Barcelona see long-term potential in the Senegalese international, who has also earned 20 caps for his national team.

Future replacements: Haaland and Álvarez also on Barcelona’s radar

In the longer term, Barcelona are keeping tabs on Erling Haaland and Julián Álvarez as potential marquee signings to replace Lewandowski. However, given current financial constraints, a blockbuster move is unlikely this window.

The club’s recent acquisition of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United already stretched their budget. Adding Jackson would only be feasible if Lewandowski departs and a significant portion of his salary and transfer fee are cleared from the books.