Chelsea: Nicolas Jackson closes in on Aston Villa

Nicolas Jackson is very close to joining Aston Villa. An agreement worth around €75 million has been reached with Chelsea, moving the striker further away from Atlético Madrid.

Nicolas Jackson is heading for Aston Villa. The Chelsea striker is expected to leave London on Thursday for Birmingham, where he will undergo his medical and finalise his transfer. According to the information available, a full agreement has been reached between Chelsea and Unai Emery’s club, with the deal valued at around €75 million, including add-ons.

Aston Villa lead the race

Aston Villa have been the most concrete club in the race for Jackson for several weeks. Talks have now resulted in an agreement that should allow the Senegalese striker to continue his career in Birmingham. Jackson is expected to sign a contract running until 2031, with a release clause also included in his future deal.

Unless there is a late twist or a last-minute intervention from another interested club, the transfer should soon be officially completed. His arrival would represent a major addition for Villa, who are looking to strengthen their attack in order to remain competitive on several fronts.

Chelsea achieve their objective

For Chelsea, the sale also fits the strategy established during the summer. The London club had identified Nicolas Jackson and Liam Delap as players who could leave the squad. With a deal potentially worth €75 million, the Blues should therefore secure the fee they were seeking for their striker.

Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 and quickly showcased his pace, power and finishing ability. Despite periods of inconsistency, he scored several important goals for the London club and established himself as one of the most closely followed African forwards in the Premier League.

Atlético now falling behind

The latest development is particularly disappointing for Atlético Madrid. The Spanish club had shown interest in the Senegalese striker and had emerged as a potential destination for him.

However, Aston Villa have now taken a decisive lead. Jackson’s departure for Birmingham could also trigger another major move, with Ollie Watkins potentially set to join Al-Hilal, opening a new chapter in the summer transfer market for strikers.

The focus is now on Jackson’s medical before he begins a new chapter under Unai Emery.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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