Chelsea are reportedly ready to sell Nicolas Jackson as Aston Villa and Newcastle United circle.
Chelsea are open to sanctioning a loan-to-sell exit for Nicolas Jackson, with several clubs circling as the summer transfer window enters its final stretch. According to reports, interested sides are being told that a deal could take shape on a loan with obligation to buy, potentially including a £10 million loan fee.
The Blues are not desperate to push Jackson out, but they are prepared to listen to offers under the right conditions. The 24-year-old Senegal international was signed for big money just last summer, but his future at Stamford Bridge looks increasingly uncertain after Enzo Maresca bolstered his frontline with Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.
That extra competition for places could severely limit Nicolas Jackson’s minutes this season, and Chelsea recognise that the player’s desire for regular game-time may ultimately dictate his next move.
An expensive deal
Crucially, Chelsea’s £80 million valuation may need to drop closer to £70 million if a permanent sale is to materialise. In the meantime, a loan with an obligation to buy allows them to keep flexibility while also generating funds to reinvest. The Blues are strongly linked with Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United and Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig, so freeing up cash is a clear priority.
According to Ben Jacobs via X, Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are actively exploring a deal for Jackson as they continue to reshape their attack. Having already secured Ollie Watkins on a long-term deal, Aston Villa want another forward to strengthen their Champions League squad depth.
Nicolas Jackson wants regular playtime
For Jackson, Villa Park offers the promise of minutes in Europe and a chance to thrive under a coach known for improving attackers. A loan with an obligation to buy would suit Villa if they are cautious about committing to a full transfer immediately.
Newcastle United remain firmly in the mix too, with Eddie Howe seeking to refresh his attacking department after a season disrupted by injuries. Jackson’s pace and work rate could fit neatly into Howe’s system, and Newcastle’s ability to provide Premier League continuity may appeal to the player.
Ultimately, Jackson’s exit hinges on two factors: whether Chelsea reduce their valuation and whether the player is convinced of the project offered by his next club. His need for consistent starts is the driving force, especially with international ambitions in mind. As things stand, Chelsea are open for business, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are circling, and Jackson has a big decision to make in the coming weeks.