Former Blues striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has publicly praised Chelsea’s decision to walk away from a potential move for Victor Osimhen in this summer’s transfer window, backing Nicolas Jackson and the club’s new forward strategy.
Not Premier League Ready?” Hasselbaink Defends Chelsea’s Trust in Jackson Over Osimhen
Osimhen, 26, was heavily linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge. Last summer, the Nigerian forward nearly joined but talks with Napoli collapsed.
This season he impressed on loan at Galatasaray—leading them to a domestic double which only increased interest. Chelsea, though, opted to invest in Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap and place trust in Jackson.
On John Obi Mikel’s “Obi One Podcast,” Hasselbaink gave the move his full endorsement:
“I’m not convinced of Osimhen for the Premier League… For Spain, for Italy – yes. For the Premier League? I’m not 100 per cent sure.”
He stressed Jackson’s qualities: “He brings a lot of energy… the pressing from the front, the work‑rate … so important for a successful team.”
Although Jackson is still refining his finishing and composure, Hasselbaink believes that consistent opportunities will accelerate his development.
Hasselbaink added a reminder of Jackson’s recent journey, observing that before joining Villarreal, he was “playing nowhere,” underscoring his rapid rise and significant upside.
The £64 million release clause in Osimhen’s Napoli contract, now somewhat reduced for non‑Italian clubs, made a Chelsea pursuit viable—but the Blues held off, maintaining their wage structure after reportedly failing to meet personal terms.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray and interests from Saudi Arabia remained strong contenders for the striker.
Ashley Cole has also urged supporters to stay patient, pointing out that adapting to Enzo Maresca’s tactics takes time.
Jackson logged 12 goals in his first Premier League season an encouraging return, but not yet the consistency Stamford Bridge demands.
