Jackson has returned to Stamford Bridge after spending the 2025-26 season on loan at German champions Bayern Munich where he scored 11 goals in 34 appearances for the German champions as he deputized for Harry Kane.
As per reports, he is currently among the players working away from Chelsea's main first-team training group as manager Xabi Alonso has no plans to allow him back into the squad ahead of his summer move away.
The 25-year-old Senegal international has attracted interest from a number of clubs this summer and transfer expert Ben Jacobs revealed this week that Villa are close to securing his signature.
“Aston Villa viewed as frontrunners for Nicolas Jackson with Chelsea prioritising a sale. £65m asking price.
“Atletico Madrid talks centred on a loan formula with no breakthrough.
“Al-Hilal pursuit of Ollie Watkins ongoing. Saudi club will be back with a new bid.”
Villa lead the way as Watkins thinks about his future
According to Marca, Atletico's director of football Mateu Alemany flew to London on Thursday to hold talks over a move for Jackson but as Jacobs reports, no deal was reached.
Villa’s move comes as Watkins is mulling over his future and the England striker is yet to reject a move to the Saudi Pro League where his wages would be dramatically increased.
Villa have rejected three offers for Watkins but as they grow closer to signing Jackson, it looks like the club are preparing for life without the England star.
Chelsea kick-start their 2026-27 campaign with a trip to west London rivals Fulham on Monday night, a game where Jackson is unlikely to make the bench.