Nicolas Jackson is heading back to Chelsea after Bayern Munich failed to sign him permanently.
The Senegal international spent the season at the Allianz Arena but struggled to be a regular starter due to Harry Kane, who once again dominated in attack.
The striker's lack of chances saw Bayern opt against triggering his £56 million buy clause despite the club winning the Bundesliga title at a canter.
Now, Jackson will return to Stamford Bridge this summer with his future still uncertain ahead of Xabi Alonso officially taking charge on July 1.
And according to the latest reports, the striker has already made his feelings on his future very clear.
Nicolas Jackson wants to be first team starter at Chelsea
According to The Sun, Jackson is happy to remain at Chelsea next season — but only if Alonso makes him a first-team starter.
Fair enough from Jackson, because despite his inconsistencies, Chelsea’s striker situation has hardly improved without him this season.
Liam Delap, who was effectively brought in as a replacement, endured a disastrous campaign after arriving from Ipswich Town last summer.
The Englishman scored just one Premier League goal all season and has looked nothing like a Chelsea player. The result has been a major lack of confidence and the Blues failing to score as many goals as they should've done.
Consequently, the 23-year-old looks nailed on to leave after just one season in West London, and should that be the case, why not give Jackson another chance?
While there is no denying the Senegal international frustrated at times, it cannot be doubted how Chelsea's attack was a lot more functional with him leading the line.
Staying could be key to unlocking Cole Palmer
In fact, Jackson's impact on the team extended far beyond his own performances. He was a key component in getting the best out of others around — Cole Palmer was the biggest beneficiary.
The 24-year-old endured a hugely disappointing season this time around, and it's no coincidence that he struggled without Jackson leading the line.
The pair developed a strong understanding of each other last season. They combined for 15 goals across 74 matches.
Palmer thrives when playing just behind a striker who is willing to make runs behind defences and create space rather, and that's Jackson's game.
If Alonso is serious about rebuilding Chelsea’s attack around fluid movement and positional rotations, keeping Jackson is a no-brainer.
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