Al Hilal are in discussions to sign Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, according to reports, as the Saudi Pro League club continues its pursuit of England strikers Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins. The move comes with Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema expected to depart, leaving the club in need of a new top-class centre-forward.
Kane and Watkins Interest
While Harry Kane is reportedly open to a move to the Middle East, his current preference is to remain at Bayern Munich, where negotiations over a new contract are underway. Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins is said to be keen on the transfer, but Villa are reluctant to lose their talisman, especially after selling Morgan Rogers to Chelsea earlier this summer.
Villa have already rejected three bids from Al Hilal, the latest worth £40 million, according to the report. Talks are ongoing, and a deal could be reached if manager Unai Emery can secure a suitable replacement. Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson, who spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich, has long been of interest to Villa.
Al Hilal's Busy Transfer Window
Al Hilal are also pushing to sign Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr. According to Foot Mercato, the Saudi club has already approached the player and presented their project to him. Manager Simone Inzaghi is looking to partner Sarr with his Senegal teammate and former Chelsea star Kalidou Koulibaly.
However, Al Hilal will face competition for Sarr's signature, with Real Sociedad also very interested in bringing the 20-year-old in on loan. Sarr only signed for Chelsea last summer from Strasbourg, initially moving back to the fellow BlueCo-owned club on loan before being recalled to Stamford Bridge in January. He made just six appearances across all competitions for the Premier League side, and his short-term future appears to be away from west London.
Chelsea's Defensive Overhaul
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has plenty of centre-backs at his disposal, including new signing Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Josh Acheampong, and Jorrel Hato. The club is also looking to sell Tosin Adarabioyo and Axel Disasi, while Benoit Badiashile is close to joining Napoli.
It is set to be a busy end to the transfer window for Al Hilal, who are also pursuing other targets as they reshape their squad ahead of the new season.
