Aston Villa Open Talks with Chelsea for Nicolas Jackson

Aston Villa have initiated negotiations with Chelsea over the transfer of striker Nicolas Jackson, according to insider Nicolo Schira. Manager Unai Emery knows the 25-year-old Senegal international well from their time together at Villarreal and is keen to reunite with him in Birmingham. But the deal faces financial hurdles - Jackson's current wages are steep for Villa's salary structure, and Chelsea's initial asking price is considered too high. Jackson joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 and has since made 81 appearances across all competitions, netting 30 goals and providing 12 assists. His contract runs until the summer of 2033, and his market value is estimated at €40 million. Earlier this window, Villa also announced the loan signing of Chelsea winger Garnacho, signaling an ongoing working relationship between the two clubs.