Aston Villa are in the market for a new striker this summer, especially with Ollie Watkins’ future at Villa Park looking uncertain. Their latest target has emerged.
Unai Emery is eager to strengthen his squad with a new number nine, and a signing could happen even if Watkins remains. With Jhon Duran’s recent transfer to Al-Nassr, Aston Villa has been closely monitoring the striker market over the past few months for potential replacements.
A promising opportunity may be on the horizon for Aston Villa.
Unai Emery is pushing for Aston Villa to secure Nicolas Jackson. According to Football Insider, the club has expressed interest in signing Chelsea’s striker, and a preliminary approach has already been made to assess his availability. Emery highly rates Jackson and envisions him as a valuable addition for the 2025-26 season and beyond.
Chelsea has brought in Liam Delap this summer, with Joao Pedro expected to join as well. Consequently, they are open to letting Jackson leave if a suitable offer presents itself during the transfer window.
It’s important to highlight that Unai Emery and Nicolas Jackson have a shared history from their time at Villarreal, where Emery’s coaching helped refine Jackson’s talents during his early stages. This enduring connection enhances the potential for a successful collaboration, while also bringing a personal element to the anticipation of a gathering at Villa Park.
Jackson has faced various challenges at Chelsea, where his development and confidence on the pitch have sometimes been hindered by the elevated expectations and pressure to perform. A transition to a club where the atmosphere is more forgiving and focused on growth could be a strategic move for him, allowing him to regain his form and flourish as a player.
Jackson seems to have a strong case for moving to the Midlands under Emery’s tutelage, who is renowned for his ability to improve players’ performances through specialized training and tactical insights. He may be able to reach his full potential by working with a manager who truly understands his skills and shortcomings, which would make a move to Aston Villa not just alluring but also potentially career-changing.
