Aston Villa face fresh competition for Nicolas Jackson after Atlético Madrid submitted a loan offer for the Chelsea striker. The proposal was rejected, but the Spanish club remain interested in the £65million-rated forward as Unai Emery attempts to secure a replacement for Ollie Watkins.
Jackson has emerged as Villa’s preferred attacking target while Al-Hilal continue pursuing Watkins.
Watkins has reportedly rejected a new four-year Villa contract, increasing the likelihood that Emery will need another striker before the transfer window closes.
However, the latest development means Villa are not alone in pursuing the Senegal international.
Atlético Madrid enter Nicolas Jackson transfer battle
TEAMtalk reports that Chelsea rejected Atlético’s loan approach because they want to sell Jackson permanently.
The Spanish club have maintained their interest despite that setback, potentially increasing competition for the 25-year-old.
Villa had already made a proposal to Jackson while Napoli explored their own move.
Emery has now reportedly spoken directly with the striker, having previously worked with him at Villarreal. Jackson is understood to be receptive to a reunion with the Villa manager.
Sky Sports has also reported that Chelsea value Jackson at £65m and want a permanent sale after his loan spell at Bayern Munich.
That stance could favour Villa if Atlético continue pursuing a temporary arrangement, although the cost remains significant.
UEFA rule could complicate Aston Villa deal
Villa face an additional complication because they sold Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for £117m in July.
UEFA’s financial regulations require clubs to assess whether players moving in opposite directions should be treated as an exchange transaction.
Transfers completed within 45 days are among the factors considered. Such a classification can affect how clubs record transfer profits and the cost of incoming players.
A Jackson transfer would not automatically breach any rule, but the proximity to Rogers’ departure could complicate the structure of a potential agreement.
Villa have also enquired about Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee as an alternative.
For now, Jackson remains Emery’s leading target. Atlético’s approach and the financial considerations surrounding another Chelsea deal mean securing him may prove more complicated than simply agreeing the asking price.
