Aston Villa are reportedly close to finalising a deal to sign striker Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea, with the transfer potentially reaching £65m. The agreement between the clubs is said to be broad, with Chelsea set to receive an initial £47.5m, plus £17.5m in add-ons for the 25-year-old.
Should the Senegal international agree personal terms and complete his move to Villa Park, it is likely to pave the way for England international Ollie Watkins to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Negotiations for Jackson are understood to be at an advanced stage, with the striker expected to reunite with Unai Emery, under whom he previously played at Spanish club Villarreal.
Jackson's arrival would mark another significant step in Villa's summer squad overhaul, following the acquisitions of Johan Manzambi, Joao Gomes, Zion Suzuki, and Matteo Ruggeri. The forward joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 for £35m, scoring 30 goals in 81 appearances for the Blues.