Aston Villa have struck an agreement with Chelsea to sign striker Nicolas Jackson in a deal worth a maximum package of £65m, according to David Ornstein. The 25-year-old Senegal international is set to move to Villa Park for an initial £47.5m fee plus £17.5m in potential add-ons.
The deal comes as Unai Emery looks to bolster his attacking options. Villa have almost closed the agreement with Jackson and his camp on personal terms, according to Fabrizio Romano. Emery is said to have been pushing for the move. Official club-to-club talks progressed quickly to reach the current total package.
This significant investment follows news of a major departure from the Midlands. Al Hilal have agreed a deal to sign Ollie Watkins for €58.4m plus €2m in add-ons, according to Fabrizio Romano. The English striker has been given the green light to travel this week. Jackson appears to be the direct replacement for the outgoing forward.
The deal
- Fee: £47.5m initial (David Ornstein)
- Add-ons: £17.5m (David Ornstein)
- Total Package: £65m (David Ornstein)
- Stage: Personal terms being finalised (David Ornstein)
Jackson joined Chelsea last summer and has now become the subject of one of the window’s biggest domestic moves. Villa were willing to spend over £60m to secure his services. The deal represents a swift piece of business as the club manages the transition of their frontline. Emery’s side are also awaiting their Carabao Cup third-round opponents in the upcoming draw.
What happens next
Nicolas Jackson will look to finalise personal terms with Aston Villa before undergoing a medical. The striker is expected to complete the formalities of his move from London to Birmingham shortly. Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia this week to complete his move to Al Hilal.
Follow all the latest in our Aston Villa transfer news hub.
Every completed deal of the window, updated as clubs confirm them: Confirmed transfers 2026: every Premier League done deal — LIVE.





