Aston Villa 'join the race' to sign unwanted Chelsea striker | OneFootball

Aston Villa have entered the race to sign Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as Unai Emery looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.

That's according to several sources including Sky Sports in both England and Germany.

The Senegal international is attracting growing interest from clubs across Europe, with Villa now believed to have held discussions over a possible move.

Jackson’s ability to operate both through the middle and in wide positions makes him a versatile option for Emery, who is keen to add depth alongside Ollie Watkins as the club prepare for domestic and European commitments.

Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge has become increasingly uncertain following Chelsea’s significant investment in attacking talent. Despite flashes of quality since his arrival from Villarreal, he has struggled for consistency and is not guaranteed a starting role in Enzo Maresca's plans.

For Villa, securing Jackson would represent another statement of intent in the transfer market, underlining the club’s ambition to compete at the top end of the Premier League and in Europe. For Chelsea, his departure would help ease squad congestion and could free up funds for further reinforcements.

The situation is expected to develop in the coming weeks as Villa weigh up whether to press ahead with a formal bid.

📸 ANGELA WEISS - AFP or licensors