Chelsea
Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, but a potential move depends on changes to their current attacking options. The Spanish club have monitored the 25-year-old Senegalese striker throughout the summer. Chelsea are also looking to resolve Jackson’s future before the transfer window closes.
Atletico Madrid consider move for Jackson
As reported by BBC Sport, Atletico Madrid’s interest in Jackson has continued throughout the summer. However, the Spanish club’s pursuit depends on whether they lose one of their current forwards. There is also uncertainty over the type of deal Atletico would consider. Chelsea’s asking price stands at £65 million, making a permanent transfer difficult for the Spanish side. Atletico could instead explore a loan deal that includes an option to buy.
Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal for £32 million in 2023. He later spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich for a £14.3 million fee. However, the obligation to buy was not triggered because he failed to make enough appearances. Chelsea left Jackson out of their 3-1 friendly win over Real Sociedad on Saturday, fuelling speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge.
Aston Villa emerge as leading option
As reported by TEAMtalk, Chelsea are pushing to find a solution for Jackson this week, with the club prepared to sell the striker permanently. Jackson has reportedly been told he can leave and does not feature in Xabi Alonso’s immediate plans**.** Chelsea therefore want to complete his departure before the transfer window closes.
Aston Villa have also emerged as the leading contenders for his signature. The Premier League club could need a new striker if Ollie Watkins completes his expected move to the Saudi Pro League. Villa see Jackson as a potential Watkins replacement, with Emery already knowing him from Villarreal. The move could suit both clubs, giving Villa a new forward while Chelsea raise funds and create squad space.
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Chelsea Football Stadium - Stamford Bridge
Nicolas Jackson’s Bayern Munich stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Chances Created
Bundesliga 23 8 1 18
DFB Pokal 1 0 0 –
Champions League 10 3 2 6
Chelsea to overhaul attacking options
If Watkins leaves, Villa’s financial flexibility could be improved but Chelsea’s £65 million valuation could still prove difficult to match. The Blues have more negotiating power due to his contract at Chelsea running until 2033. The club also have a number of attacking options, giving Alonso more reason to sanction the departure of the striker.
Chelsea have agreed a deal for Emmanuel Emegha from Strasbourg, and he is expected to join the club. Danny Welbeck and Morgan Rogers also give them more options in attack. Chelsea are now looking to move on players who are not key parts of Alonso’s plans. Jackson seems to be one of them, with the club now seeking a permanent exit.
Atletico are still interested, but their plans may depend on Alvarez or Sorloth leaving. Aston Villa now look like a more likely option for Jackson. However, the situation could change as the transfer deadline gets closer.
For Jackson, the next few weeks could shape his future. After a difficult spell at Chelsea and a tough loan at Bayern Munich, a move could help him rebuild his confidence and become a regular first-team football player.
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