Aston Villa have some important business to handle before kicking off their new Premier League campaign at home against Newcastle United next month. With key players attracting interest and potential exits looming, a busy transfer window is expected.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been linked with a move to Manchester United, while Nottingham Forest have shown interest in midfielder Jacob Ramsey. However, with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) no longer hanging over them, Villa now have more freedom to bring in fresh talent — particularly in attack if Ollie Watkins departs.
Villa interested in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson
Should Watkins leave — and he’s reportedly on the radar of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United — Villa will need to reinforce their frontline swiftly. One name reportedly under consideration is Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed via X that Villa are exploring a move for Jackson, who had a mixed debut season in West London. Chelsea aren’t actively pushing the 24-year-old out the door, but they are open to offers, with his valuation said to be around £60m.
A risky but familiar profile
Jackson would be a bold investment given his inconsistency in front of goal. But there are striking similarities between him and current Villa striker Jhon Duran — both in their backgrounds and playing styles.
Duran was also seen as a gamble when he joined from Chicago Fire for £18m in January 2023, with just eight goals in 28 MLS appearances. Yet, under Unai Emery, he quickly became a dynamic presence, netting 12 times in 29 games last season and winning over fans with his energy and clinical edge.
Jackson arrived at Chelsea the same year, signing from Villarreal for roughly £32m. While his finishing has drawn criticism — highlighted by a staggering 43 big chances missed over two Premier League seasons — he’s still managed to notch 24 league goals in 64 appearances, outscoring Duran in top-flight football.
Statistically and stylistically similar
Data shows both players are somewhat limited in overall build-up play, averaging under 20 passes per match and rarely completing more than one dribble per 90 minutes. Instead, they thrive by operating on the shoulder of defenders, using their height and movement to create danger. Jackson stands at 6’2”, while Duran is just an inch shorter at 6’1”.
Villa already know what Jackson is capable of — he scored against them last season. With Emery’s reputation for reviving careers, including his impact on Marcus Rashford during a brief link with Villa, a fresh start in Birmingham could unlock Jackson’s true potential.
Jackson has been described as a “special” talent by journalist Rahman Osman. If Villa take the plunge, they’ll hope Emery can once again work his magic, just as he has with Duran. Of course, there’s always the risk that Jackson’s wastefulness resurfaces, but like Duran before him, this could be a high-upside risk worth taking.
