Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson appears increasingly destined to leave Stamford Bridge before the summer transfer period concludes.
Sources indicate Xabi Alonso has wielded significant influence over Chelsea’s recruitment strategy this campaign.
Aston Villa are deliberating whether to submit a formal bid for the Chelsea marksman.
The London club would be willing to part ways with Jackson provided they receive their asking price of £65million. The Senegalese international, now 25, has been completing his preparations separately from Chelsea’s senior squad in recent times, working alongside an isolated group. Insiders at the club maintain this collection of players is simply participating in mixed training rather than constituting a group designated for transfer listing, despite such arrangements occurring during previous seasons under BlueCo’s ownership.
Atletico Madrid also harbour ambitions for Jackson, though information from Spain suggests a temporary stint appeals to Diego Simeone’s side. However, Chelsea are adamant about securing a full transfer rather than a loan arrangement.
Villa cannot pursue a loan acquisition for Jackson because they have already secured Alejandro Garnacho from the same west London club on a temporary basis. League regulations prohibit any top-flight side from taking more than one loanee from a single rival simultaneously.
Unai Emery is seeking to strengthen his forward line at Villa Park this close season. Ollie Watkins faces substantial speculation regarding a potential switch to Saudi Arabia, with Villa understood to have rejected four proposals tabled by Al-Hilal.
Emery and Jackson cultivated a solid working relationship during their time together at Villarreal, and reports suggest both parties are eager for a reunion ahead of next month’s transfer deadline.
Regarding Chelsea’s situation, the club is willing to entertain offers for Jackson alongside fellow forwards Liam Delap, Marc Guiu and David Datro Fofana prior to the window shutting. Delap has attracted interest from several Premier League outfits, including Everton, plus overseas clubs, though Chelsea’s £50million valuation has deterred prospective buyers thus far.
Those within Stamford Bridge anticipate Guiu will depart permanently during this transfer window, though a temporary move remains a possibility at present. Chelsea are simultaneously endeavouring to relocate Datro Fofana, who last featured for the first team back in May 2023.
Chelsea are prepared to enter the forthcoming campaign with three forwards available. Alonso has expressed considerable satisfaction with Joao Pedro’s contributions during their brief partnership, which partly explains why the club intends to reward last season’s leading goal scorer with enhanced terms on a prolonged contract at Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, recent acquisitions Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha are anticipated to operate as back-up options behind Joao Pedro.