Aston Villa have emerged as potential suitors for Senegal international Nicolas Jackson, with the Premier League club making enquiries over the Chelsea striker as they look to strengthen their attack.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, discussions between Aston Villa and Chelsea over the past 24 hours have included Jackson’s name, with Villa assessing the possibility of bringing the 25-year-old to Birmingham.
The interest could pave the way for a reunion between Jackson and Villa manager Unai Emery, who previously coached the Senegalese forward during their time together at Spanish club Villarreal.
The development is another indication of Jackson’s growing reputation in Europe despite uncertainty surrounding his club future.
The striker has returned to Chelsea following the end of a loan spell at Bayern Munich, but speculation over his next destination has intensified after the German club decided not to activate its option to make the move permanent.
That decision has reopened the possibility of Jackson continuing his career elsewhere, with Aston Villa now among the clubs exploring a deal.
Romano reported that Villa have already contacted Chelsea to understand the player’s situation as they consider reinforcing their attacking department ahead of the new season.
Jackson is no stranger to Emery’s methods.
The Spanish coach worked closely with the Senegal international at Villarreal and is understood to have remained a long-time admirer of the forward’s qualities.
Reports also indicate that Jackson was among Villa’s transfer targets during the previous summer window.
A reunion with Emery could therefore offer the striker the chance to work again under a coach who knows his strengths and has previously shown confidence in his abilities.
Jackson’s record at Chelsea highlights why he continues to attract interest despite uncertainty over his future.
The Senegal international has contributed 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances for the London club, demonstrating his ability to influence matches both as a scorer and a creator.
Those numbers have helped maintain his status as one of the most sought-after African forwards on the transfer market.
For Aston Villa, adding a player with Premier League experience and an established relationship with the manager could strengthen their attacking options ahead of another demanding campaign.
While discussions remain at an early stage, Chelsea’s willingness to entertain interest in the striker could determine whether negotiations develop further.
Jackson’s situation will also be watched closely in Senegal, where he remains one of the country’s leading attacking talents.
A move to Aston Villa would keep him in the Premier League while potentially offering a fresh opportunity to rediscover his best form under a familiar coach.
For now, however, no agreement has been announced.
Chelsea still have Jackson under contract, and any potential transfer would depend on negotiations between the two clubs as well as the player’s own decision.
