Aston Villa is reportedly nearing an agreement to sign Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson for approximately £65 million, according to Daily Mail Sport. The potential transfer would see Jackson reunite with former manager Unai Emery, who previously coached him at Villarreal.
Sources indicate that Villa has submitted an initial proposal to Chelsea outlining their willingness to meet the valuation for Jackson, including add-ons. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing for both the transfer fee and personal terms. Daily Mail Sport reported last month that Jackson expressed interest in joining Villa to work with Emery again.
The 25-year-old Jackson has also attracted interest from other clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid. While Atletico Madrid is believed to have proposed a loan deal, Chelsea is reportedly favoring a permanent sale.
Jackson spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich after a reported breakdown in his relationship with former Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca. Chelsea's initial plan for the current season was to assess Jackson and other striker options during pre-season under new boss Xabi Alonso. Jackson has been training separately from the main squad at Cobham and was not present for Chelsea's opening-day victory over Fulham.
This potential move for Jackson comes as striker Ollie Watkins is reportedly nearing a departure from Villa Park. The 30-year-old has attracted significant interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. Watkins missed Villa's opening Premier League match against Brighton, which the team lost 4-0, and is said to be ready to leave the club.