Nicolas Jackson has reached a personal agreement to join Atletico Madrid, but Chelsea are holding out for an offer from Aston Villa, according to reports in Spain. The Senegal international has approved a move to Diego Simeone's side, yet the two clubs have not agreed on a fee, with Chelsea favouring a permanent sale over another loan.
Atletico's interest and Chelsea's stance
Atletico's sporting director, Mateu Alemany, was in London on Thursday to discuss a deal for Jackson. According to Marca, Jackson views Atletico as 'the most appealing' destination, but Chelsea's preference is to sell the striker outright rather than see him leave on a season-long loan again. Chelsea are demanding a £60m fee for Jackson, who has scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for the club.
Jackson is also open to joining Aston Villa, where he would be reunited with Unai Emery, having played under the Spaniard at Villarreal. Villa remain in the market for a striker as they face the prospect of selling Ollie Watkins to Al-Hilal. Earlier this week, Villa rejected a bid of €45 million (£38.5m) from the Saudi Pro League side for the England international.
Villa's striker search and Jackson's recent absence
Chelsea are now said to be waiting for Villa to step forward with an offer for Jackson before the summer transfer window closes. Villa's need for a new forward has been heightened by the potential departure of Watkins, and Jackson has emerged as a target given his previous relationship with Emery.
Jackson was left out of Chelsea's squad for their final pre-season friendly last Saturday, as Xabi Alonso's side sealed a 3-1 win against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge. The omission has fuelled speculation that his future lies away from the club.
Transfer window implications
The outcome of Jackson's transfer could have significant implications for both clubs. If Chelsea sell Jackson, they would free up funds and a squad place, while Villa would secure a proven Premier League striker to replace Watkins. Atletico, meanwhile, would add a forward who has impressed in English football but has yet to fully cement his place in Chelsea's starting lineup.
With the transfer window set to close, Chelsea's decision to wait for Villa could determine whether Jackson ends up in Madrid or stays in the Premier League. The next few days are likely to be crucial in resolving the striker's future.
