Unai Emery handed Aston Villa major transfer boost as Chelsea star becomes increasingly attainable

Unai Emery handed Aston Villa major transfer boost as Chelsea star becomes increasingly attainable

Aston Villa could have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Nicolas Jackson, with the Chelsea forward’s latest omission potentially opening the door for Unai Emery to make another move for his former player.

Jackson was notably absent as Chelsea faced Real Sociedad in their latest pre-season fixture. The reason for his omission has not been confirmed, but his absence was particularly interesting given that several other players linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge were also left out of the squad.

The situation could increase uncertainty surrounding Jackson’s future at Chelsea.

The Senegal international has reportedly been prepared to remain at Chelsea and compete for his place, but that stance could change if it becomes clear that he is not part of Xabi Alonso’s plans for the upcoming campaign.

For Aston Villa, that could represent a major opportunity.

Emery is believed to be keen on strengthening his attacking options, with another striker potentially needed to provide competition alongside Ollie Watkins and Tammy Abraham. Jackson would offer a different profile and could give Villa another dangerous option in the final third.

More importantly, Emery already knows exactly what Jackson can offer.

The pair previously worked together at Villarreal, where Jackson developed into an increasingly dangerous forward under the Spanish coach. Jackson has previously spoken very highly of Emery and credited him with playing a major role in improving his understanding of the game.

The striker once explained that Emery taught him how to move more intelligently on the pitch after arriving from Senegal.

That existing relationship could give Villa an advantage if Jackson ultimately decides that his future lies away from Chelsea.

There are, however, questions surrounding the forward. Jackson endured a difficult period towards the end of his previous Chelsea campaign and received criticism after being sent off twice, which raised concerns about his discipline.

Nevertheless, his overall record suggests there is still plenty of ability to work with.

Jackson scored 24 goals in 65 Premier League appearances for Chelsea and remains only 25 years old. His numbers may not currently reflect his full potential, particularly after spending the previous campaign competing for opportunities behind Harry Kane.

A move to Villa could therefore provide him with the chance to rediscover his best form under a manager who already understands how to get the most out of him.

For Villa, the financial side of the deal could also prove crucial.

If Chelsea were willing to negotiate a reasonable permanent transfer, or even consider a loan arrangement, Emery could finally have the opportunity to bring Jackson back into his squad.

With Champions League football also available at Villa, the club could present an attractive destination for a player looking for regular opportunities at the highest level.

Jackson’s latest omission from Chelsea’s squad does not necessarily mean that an exit is imminent. However, it could be an important development in Villa’s pursuit of the striker.

And with Emery already familiar with Jackson’s qualities, Aston Villa may now have a genuine opportunity to turn a long-standing interest into a concrete transfer.