Nicolas Jackson remains Aston Villa’s priority target, with club to club talks now starting as Unai Emery’s side look to make progress on a potential deal for the Chelsea striker.
Jackson has emerged as Villa’s preferred attacking option as they assess their plans for the final stages of the transfer window. The Senegal international is understood to be open to joining Villa, giving the Premier League club encouragement as negotiations get underway.
Softfootball reported that Villa have maintained their interest in Jackson since last week, with the striker remaining firmly at the top of their shortlist. Atlético Madrid also made contact last week, but Villa are now taking concrete steps to explore a possible agreement with Chelsea.
The situation is important because Villa are also considering other attacking options. However, nothing is expected regarding Jean-Philippe Mateta until Villa have pursued Jackson. The club want to establish whether they can secure their priority target before moving to alternatives.
For Chelsea, Jackson’s future is also becoming increasingly significant. Crucial days lie ahead as Chelsea work on a permanent exit for the forward, with the club prepared to consider suitable proposals as they continue reshaping their attacking department.
Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal and has shown flashes of quality during his time at Stamford Bridge, but competition for places has increased following the club’s recent recruitment.
With Villa now opening direct negotiations and Jackson receptive to the move, the coming days could prove decisive. Chelsea will assess the offers available, while Villa will hope their interest can be converted into an agreement before turning their attention elsewhere.
The striker’s preference and financial terms are expected to play a key role in determining whether Jackson completes a move to Villa Park this summer.
