Atlético Madrid Pursues Chelsea’s Jackson as Late Transfer Dominoes Fall Across Europe

As the football transfer window enters its final stages, European clubs are involved in interconnected negotiations that could trigger several major forward movements. Atlético Madrid has entered the chase for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, a pursuit that could determine the future of their own striker, Julián Álvarez. Atlético recently had a loan offer rejected for the 25-year-old Jackson, but the Spanish club intends to continue its push for his signature despite competing interest from Premier League side Aston Villa.

A potential arrival of Jackson at Atlético could open the door for Álvarez to depart. Arsenal is reportedly prepared to make a formal move for Álvarez in the final week of the transfer window, provided they receive encouragement from either the club or the player. However, reports from Spain suggest that the former Manchester City attacker would prioritize a move to Barcelona over a return to English football.

Elsewhere in the Premier League, Manchester City is evaluating options to strengthen its attack and has enquired about the availability of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, though direct contact between the clubs has not taken place. Meanwhile, Manchester United is monitoring Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, despite club sources minimizing the likelihood of completing a deal. Manchester United also retains an interest in Arsenal’s 19-year-old midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly, who could cost over £50 million if an agreement is pursued.

Younger prospects are also attracting interest despite injury issues. Bournemouth’s 20-year-old forward Junior Kroupi has drawn inquiries from Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. Bournemouth, operating under new manager Marco Rose, maintains a firm stance against selling key players this summer. In Serie A, Atalanta has turned down multiple bids for 18-year-old defender Honest Ahanor, who is currently being tracked by Chelsea after starting 22 league matches last season.

In other reported European movements, AC Milan forward Christopher Nkunku is nearing a loan move back to RB Leipzig after being deemed surplus to requirements by new Milan manager Ruben Amorim. Aston Villa is considering an approach for AC Milan winger Rafael Leão following a recent 4-0 defeat against Brighton. Additionally, Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has reportedly agreed to terms on a four-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

Background

The international transfer window allows professional football clubs to buy, sell, or loan players before strict seasonal registration deadlines. During the final days of a window, transfer activity often accelerates as clubs seek replacements before sanctioning the departure of key squad members.