Kenya Sport

Aston Villa Seal £65m Nicolas Jackson Transfer, Reuniting with Unai Emery

Aston Villa have reached an agreement to sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea for a fee around £65 million. This move reunites the striker with Unai Emery, who previously coached him at Villarreal.

Details of the Transfer

The deal includes an upfront payment of £47.5 million, with personal terms being finalised between Jackson and Villa. The 25-year-old forward has been a key target for Emery, who has long wanted to bring him to Birmingham.

This transfer marks the third transaction this summer involving Aston Villa and Chelsea, following Morgan Rogers' record £117 million move to Stamford Bridge and Alejandro Garnacho's loan to Villa with an option to buy.

Jackson’s Background with Emery

Jackson flourished under Emery at Villarreal, scoring 13 goals before moving to Chelsea in 2023 for £32 million on an eight-year deal. At Chelsea, he scored 30 goals in 81 appearances, showing bursts of his talent and strong work ethic.

Loan Experience at Bayern Munich

During the 2025-26 season, Jackson was loaned to Bayern Munich. He helped the club win their 34th Bundesliga title by contributing eight goals and two assists in 23 league games. Although there was an option to make the deal permanent for €65 million, it required Jackson to start 40 matches. He made only 13 starts across Bundesliga and Champions League games, so the clause was not triggered.

Bayern's honorary president Uli Hoeness explained the purchase obligation conditions, which were not met, leading to Jackson's return to Chelsea before Villa arranged his transfer.

International Credentials

Jackson has 37 caps and eight goals for Senegal. He debuted against the Netherlands during the 2022 World Cup and recently took part in four matches at the 2026 tournament, providing an assist. Senegal exited in the round of 32 after losing to Belgium.

  • Transfer Fee: £65 million total, £47.5 million upfront
  • Age: 25 years old
  • Previous Clubs: Villarreal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich (loan)
  • International Caps/Goals: 37 caps, 8 goals for Senegal
  • Recent Matches: 4 games at 2026 World Cup

Upcoming Fixtures Mentioned

  • Carabao Cup: Chelsea vs Luton Town – 27 Aug 2026, 20:30
  • Premier League: Aston Villa vs Arsenal – 31 Aug 2026, 21:00

Related Articles