BOMBSHELL REVEALED: Secret door SLAMS OPEN for Aston Villa to land the EXACT player they desperately begged for in failed swap deal talks — fans will LOSE IT!
Chelsea’s transfer activity could hand Aston Villa a major boost in their pursuit of Nicolas Jackson before the summer window closes.
Football Insider previously revealed that Villa had made an enquiry about the 25-year-old Chelsea striker and even discussed the possibility of including him in a swap deal during negotiations over Morgan Rogers’ move to Stamford Bridge.
Fresh developments now suggest Chelsea are preparing for life without Jackson.
The Blues have reportedly opened talks over a move for experienced forward Danny Welbeck, with discussions still at an early stage.
Despite that, there is growing confidence that an agreement could be reached before the start of the new season.
Should Welbeck arrive, Chelsea would have five recognised strikers available for the 2026/27 campaign, further increasing speculation that one of their current forwards could be allowed to leave.
Villa have maintained a strong interest in Jackson throughout the transfer window.
Unai Emery knows the Senegal international well from their previous time together and is believed to view him as a player capable of eventually succeeding Ollie Watkins as the club’s leading striker.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Welbeck only strengthens the belief that Jackson’s future is uncertain.
It would be surprising for the London club to recruit another centre-forward without first making room in an already crowded attacking department.
Summer arrival Emmanuel Emegha is expected to play an important role, while Liam Delap is determined to establish himself under new boss Xabi Alonso.
That leaves Jackson and Marc Guiu among the forwards whose futures could come under scrutiny if another striker joins.
Given Villa’s long-standing admiration for Jackson and the strong working relationship between the two clubs this summer, a deal cannot be ruled out before the transfer deadline.
Meanwhile, Villa continue to explore other reinforcements.
Football Insider has also reported that Everton midfielder James Garner remains on their shortlist after impressing at the Hill Dickinson Stadium last season.
Securing the 25-year-old may prove more difficult, however. Garner committed his future to Everton by signing a new contract until 2030 earlier this year, meaning Villa would likely have to submit a significant offer if they hope to convince the Toffees to part with one of their key midfielders before the new campaign begins.
