Aston Villa continue to explore striker options in case Ollie Watkins or Tammy Abraham leaves before the transfer window closes.
Nicolas Jackson remains a long-standing Villa target, although any move currently depends on a departure from Unai Emery’s squad.
Watkins remains Villa’s leading centre-forward but has entered the final two years of his contract. His current agreement runs until June 2028, leaving the club approaching an important decision over his future.
Villa are also prepared to consider suitable offers for Abraham. The 28-year-old returned to Villa Park permanently from Besiktas in January after helping the club win promotion during his previous spell.
Jacob Tanswell’s latest update, relayed by Villa Report, states that Villa are assessing possible replacements rather than actively pushing a current striker towards the exit.
Aston Villa striker transfer plans include Nicolas Jackson
Jackson remains firmly on Villa’s radar following previous discussions with Chelsea.
The Senegal international worked under Emery at Villarreal before joining Chelsea for £32million in 2023. He can operate centrally or from the left, giving Villa greater flexibility across their forward line.
ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Emery wants to reunite with Jackson. No formal club-to-club negotiations had started at that stage, although the striker was reportedly open to considering Villa Park.
Chelsea’s position also affects any possible agreement. Jackson cannot join Villa on loan while Alejandro Garnacho remains borrowed from the same club, so a permanent transfer would be required.
Villa are not currently guaranteed to sign another striker. Watkins remains under contract, while Abraham is not being actively forced out despite the willingness to listen to offers.
The Aston Villa striker transfer search is therefore based on preparation. Jackson appears to be the preferred option if a departure creates space in Emery’s squad.
