Nicolas Jackson is heading back to Chelsea after Bayern Munich declined to make his loan permanent.
The German champions confirmed they would not activate the purchase option in his deal, bringing his spell at the Allianz Arena to an end.
The decision came down to finances. Bayern held an option to sign Jackson for around €65m (£56m), but the board judged that too steep for a squad player.
That call was effectively made months ago, with the club unwilling to commit such a sum.
Jackson set for Chelsea return as Bayern pass on deal
It was not a reflection of his attitude, though. Head coach Vincent Kompany spoke warmly of the Senegal striker, praising his professionalism and the way he handled a supporting role behind Harry Kane.
Sporting director Max Eberl, however, had confirmed the club would not proceed.
Jackson’s numbers underline his secondary status. He scored 10 goals across the campaign, largely from the bench, while helping Bayern to the Bundesliga title and a domestic cup final.
FC Bayern confirm Nico Jackson returns to Chelsea with immediate effect after buy clause not triggered.
Bayern decided months ago, see the €50m buy option as too expensive despite Kompany happy with Nico.
His return raises fresh questions in West London. Chelsea must now decide whether to reintegrate the 24-year-old, sanction another loan, or cash in.
His productive spell in Germany is likely to attract interest from elsewhere in Europe.
Chelsea are in a period of managerial transition, and it remains unclear whether new boss Xabi Alonso will include Jackson in his plans.
That uncertainty leaves Jackson’s path back into the side far from straightforward.
A crowded forward line complicates matters further. Chelsea already have several strikers competing for minutes, and have been linked with more, leaving little obvious room for the returning forward.
Jackson, whose contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2033, will report back knowing his long-term future may lie away from the club.
FC Bayern confirm Nico Jackson returns to Chelsea with immediate effect after buy clause not triggered.
