Arsenal have turned down the opportunity to sign Nicolas Jackson, with a move to Aston Villa or Newcastle United now looking more likely.
Nicolas Jackson is expected to part ways with Chelsea in the coming weeks. He is no longer an integral part of their plans, and the Blues are ready to sanction his departure.
According to a report from CaughtOffside, Arsenal were offered the chance to sign the Senegalese international, but they have turned down the opportunity. With the Gunners no longer in the picture, a move to Aston Villa or Newcastle United seems more likely.
Jackson came up the ranks at Villarreal and made a name for himself while playing for their first team. On the back of an impressive season with the Spanish club, Chelsea acquired his services in the summer of 2023.
The 24-year-old striker might not have lit up the world, but he has certainly done a decent job for the Blues. Last season, he was involved in a total of 19 goals (13 goals, 6 assists) in his 37 outings.
Despite his efforts, the London club were not convinced about him being their number nine going forward. As a result, they ended up signing Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.
Following the duo’s arrival, Jackson has become surplus to requirements. The Blues are now looking to cash in on him, and there is a significant amount of interest in his services.
His representatives offered Arsenal the chance to sign the 24-year-old. While the Gunners have already signed Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke from their London rivals, they have turned down the chance to sign Jackson, having already added Viktor Gyokeres to their squad.
Aston Villa & Newcastle could battle it out for Jackson
With Arsenal no longer in the picture, Newcastle and Aston Villa are potential destinations for the Senegalese striker. They have been showing strong interest in the 24-year-old.
Villa are believed to be most keen on signing the Chelsea outcast. Unai Emery would love to reunite with him, having worked with him at Villarreal back in the day. While they are trying their best to hold onto Ollie Watkins, Villa do need another top-quality forward who can support him and compete with him for a place in the XI.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are keeping a close eye on the 24-year-old amidst uncertainty around Alexander Isak’s future. They have held informal talks with his representatives as they consider him a potential replacement for the Swedish international.