Atletico Madrid have given up hope of signing Nicolas Jackson, with the out-of-favour Chelsea forward reportedly on the cusp of a big-money move to Aston Villa.
Jackson joined up with Chelsea again this summer following a season-long loan spell with Bayern Munich, but played no part in the Blues’ 3-2 victory over Fulham on Monday night.
Bundesliga champions Bayern confirmed in April that they had no intention of signing Jackson on a permanent basis, leaving the 25-year-old in a state of limbo ahead of the new season.
Aston Villa have been keeping close tabs on Jackson’s situation for well over 12 months and have stepped up their pursuit of the attacker over the last few days, with Ollie Watkins expected to depart for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal.
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According to Spanish newspaper AS, a proposed move to Atleti appears ‘increasingly unlikely’ and Jackson looks set to become Unai Emery’s newest addition at Villa Park.
Jackson had been identified as a potential replacement for wantaway Atleti forward Julian Alvarez at the Metropolitano Stadium, but the La Liga giants must now consider alternative options if they are to reinforce their frontline.
It’s claimed Jackson has agreed personal terms with Villa and Emery’s side also have a verbal deal in place over a fee believed to in the region of £60-65million.
Jackson is expected to put pen to paper on a six-year contract with Villa, tying him to the club until 2032.
Villa are said to have been keen on Jackson ‘for several summers’ and Watkins’ impending departure has only intensified their interest heading the final week of the transfer window.
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Emery has been left upset and frustrated by the recent departures of Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Ezri Konsa for Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal respectively, and is desperate to bring in an attacker with Premier League experience before Tuesday’s deadline.
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The possible sale of Emiliano Martinez would help fund Villa’s move for Jackson, with Chelsea offered the chance to sign the Argentina goalkeeper in the last few hours.
Jackson has racked up 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances for Chelsea since arriving at Stamford Bridge from Villarreal at the start of Mauricio Pochettino’s reign back in 2023.
