Aston Villa are eyeing Nicolas Jackson as a potential replacement for Ollie Watkins. According to Sky Sports News, the Birmingham club is prepared to approach Chelsea about the 25-year-old forward should Watkins secure a move to Al-Hilal.
The Saudi club continues to negotiate for Watkins, who is interested in the transfer. Aston Villa is reluctant to part ways with their striker, yet Al-Hilal is persistent in pursuing the deal.
At least one bid has already been rejected, with the initial offer from the Saudi club around £38.5 million. Last season, Watkins netted 16 goals in the Premier League and played a pivotal role in Unai Emery's squad, helping them lift the Europa League.
If Watkins does depart, Nicolas Jackson emerges as one of the top candidates for his replacement. As reported by Sky Sports, Chelsea has put a £65 million price tag on the forward and is expecting a full sale.
Interest in Jackson also comes from Atletico Madrid, but the Spanish side prefers a loan arrangement. However, Chelsea is not on board with this, especially after the Senegalese player spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich.
Jackson’s familiarity with Emery could work in Aston Villa’s favour, as he has previously played under the Spanish manager at Villarreal.
Additionally, there are strong working relations between Chelsea and Aston Villa, with both clubs having completed deals for Morgan Rogers and Alejandro Garnacho this summer.
