Chelsea are still pushing to part ways with Nicolas Jackson this summer, and could be about to see a Premier League side finally make a serious move to sign him.
It has become clear that Jackson is not at the forefront of Enzo Maresca’s plans this season, with the club building in a new direction following the signings of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.
Jackson was not involved in either pre-season friendly, as well as nowhere to be seen in the matchday squad for the opening game of the Premier League season against Crystal Palace.
A number of clubs have previously registered interest in signing the Senegal international, however the influx of new striker signings elsewhere has seen him not move on yet.
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Aston Villa have held talks to sign Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson
One side who have not yet invested in a new number nine is Aston Villa, and there is a previous connection between their manager and the Chelsea man.
Unai Emery is a massive fan of Jackson after previously working with him at Villarreal, and could reignite that connection at Villa Park.
Journalist Florian Plettenberg has stated that talks have already taken place between the two sides over a possible summer move.
He said: “Aston Villa have added Nicolas Jackson to their shortlist and are closely monitoring his situation. Talks have already taken place. Several clubs are interested.
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“FC Bayern have also gathered information, but a move to Munich is not happening. The 24 y/o versatile striker is still on the verge of leaving Chelsea. Aston Villa now there.”
🚨🟣🔵 Aston Villa have added Nicolas #Jackson to their shortlist and are closely monitoring his situation. Talks have already taken place. #AVFC
Several clubs are interested. FC Bayern have also gathered information, but a move to Munich is not happening.
The 24 y/o versatile… pic.twitter.com/XLIV96xSqS
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 18, 2025
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Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson shake hands during Chelsea FC v Los Angeles Football Club: Group D - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
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Chelsea’s replacements for Jackson
Despite losing a big-name striker if Jackson was to depart, the current plan is not to sign another new number nine in this transfer window.
Instead, the Blues are looking to utilise the players they already have should there be any issues with Pedro and Delap later in the campaign.
Maresca believes the likes of Estevao Willian can feature up front if necessary, with Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto also options too.
Chelsea have been linked to a new addition next summer, with Strasbourg’s Emanuel Emegha an option.