The Nicolas Jackson Aston Villa transfer picture remains finely balanced after Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso publicly praised the striker while admitting the Blues are still assessing their options.
Jackson remains of interest to Aston Villa, with Unai Emery already familiar with the Senegal international from their time together at Villarreal. However, Alonso’s latest comments suggest Chelsea have not yet decided that the 25-year-old should leave Stamford Bridge.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s pre-season programme, Alonso described Jackson as a player capable of threatening any defence and said the club are pleased to have him in the squad. Sports Mole reports that the Chelsea boss added that his side will continue assessing their options on a day-by-day basis.
Nicolas Jackson Aston Villa transfer remains one to watch
The comments do not close the door on a move to Villa Park, but they underline why a deal remains complicated.
Jackson has returned to Chelsea following his loan spell with Bayern Munich and now has an opportunity to impress Alonso. Chelsea’s crowded attacking department could still create room for departures before the September deadline, particularly after their summer recruitment.
Villa’s admiration is longstanding. ReadAstonVilla analysed on Wednesday why Emery could potentially get more from Jackson, with the forward’s movement and ability to create high-quality chances standing out despite criticism of his finishing.
There would also be significant obstacles to overcome. Villa already have Alejandro Garnacho on loan from Chelsea, meaning Jackson could not arrive through another temporary agreement between the clubs.
A permanent deal would therefore be required if Villa decide to step up their interest.
Alonso’s comments suggest Jackson still has a route back into Chelsea’s plans. Yet with Villa continuing to assess their attacking options and Emery already knowing the player well, the Nicolas Jackson Aston Villa transfer situation remains worth watching as the window develops.
