Susan Abayomi
Aston Villa have completed the signing of Senegal international Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea on a permanent transfer, strengthening their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
The 25-year-old striker has signed a five-year contract with the Birmingham club after completing his move from Chelsea. The deal is reported to be worth £47.5 million initially, with a further £17.5 million available in performance-related add-ons, potentially taking the total value to £65 million.
Jackson’s arrival reunites him with Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, who previously worked with the forward during their time at Villarreal in Spain. Emery played a key role in Jackson’s development before the striker moved to Chelsea in 2023.
The Senegal international joined Chelsea from Villarreal and scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for the London club. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he also helped Chelsea win the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup.
Jackson spent the previous season on loan at German champions Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals and contributed to the club’s Bundesliga and German Cup triumphs.
His move to Villa comes as the club reshapes its attacking department following the departure of England striker Ollie Watkins to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Watkins’ move was reported at around £50 million.
Villa will hope Jackson can quickly establish himself as a key figure in Emery’s attack as the club prepares for a demanding campaign that includes Premier League and European football.
The transfer also represents another significant piece of business between Aston Villa and Chelsea during a busy summer window, with both clubs involved in several major player movements.
Jackson, who has earned 37 caps for Senegal and represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will now look to make an immediate impact at Villa Park as he begins the next chapter of his career.
