Chelsea are expecting Aston Villa to make a move for Nicolas Jackson as uncertainty over Ollie Watkins’ future creates a potential £65million transfer domino.
Villa have been interested in Jackson throughout the summer, but their pursuit could now accelerate significantly.
The Telegraph reports that Chelsea expect Aston Villa to bid for the striker, with Unai Emery looking to strengthen his attacking options as Watkins pushes for a move to Al-Hilal.
Chelsea value Jackson at around £65m and would prefer a permanent departure rather than another loan.
🚨🇸🇳 Crucial days ahead for Nicolas Jackson to leave Chelsea as clubs working on it behind the scenes.
Aston Villa, keen since August 2025 and still there if Watkins joins Al Hilal; Atlético Madrid also interested and in active talks.
Spurs and Napoli had called but #CFC only… pic.twitter.com/PRZprUYdW4
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2026
Nicolas Jackson Aston Villa move gathers momentum
Villa’s position is closely connected to Watkins.
Sky Sports reports that Villa are expected to move for Jackson if Watkins is sold to Al-Hilal, with the Saudi club continuing negotiations after having offers rejected.
Watkins wants the move, while Emery has publicly acknowledged that his future remains uncertain.
Jackson would provide Villa with a ready-made Premier League replacement.
The 25-year-old also knows Emery well after working under the Spaniard at Villarreal before joining Chelsea.
His other options are beginning to narrow.
ReadChelsea reported on Friday that Atletico Madrid sporting director Mateu Alemany travelled to London to discuss Jackson, but Atletico were pursuing an initial loan.
AS now reports that Jackson is no longer a priority for Atletico after Chelsea made clear they want to prioritise a permanent sale.
That potentially strengthens Villa’s position.
Napoli remain another interested club after ReadChelsea reported that contact had been made over Jackson earlier this week, although the Italian champions also need to resolve outgoing business.
Chelsea have little uncertainty over what they want.
Jackson is available, a permanent transfer is preferred and Villa now appear to be emerging as the strongest Premier League route.
If Watkins’ Saudi move advances, Chelsea could soon receive the £65m approach they have been waiting for.
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