Aston Villa leads race for Jackson while Atletico's loan bid stalls

Aston Villa are moving decisively for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, putting themselves ahead of Atletico Madrid in the transfer race, as the English club prepares a bid for the 65‑million‑pound player. The push comes amid growing interest from other European sides.

Villa's push and Atletico's loan talks

The latest report, published by Stampa A− A+, highlighted that L'Aston Villa consider themselves the favourite for Jackson. Atletico Madrid entered negotiations centred on a loan arrangement, but no agreement was reached, leaving the Spanish side without a clear path to the forward.

Atletico's loan proposal stalled because Chelsea, the player's current club, has ruled out temporary moves. The English side insists any departure must be a permanent transfer, effectively closing the loan door for Madrid.

Chelsea's stance and other suitors

Napoli also dream of adding Jackson, but their only realistic option is a loan, a route Chelsea has already dismissed. Ultime notizie calcio mercato Napoli - Il Napoli sogna Nicolas Jackson, yet the transfer remains “a complicata trattativa” given Chelsea’s firm position.

Ben Jacobs, a recognised transfer journalist, posted an update on X confirming Chelsea’s priority for a definitive sale. He cited a requested price of 65 million pounds, reinforcing the financial expectations surrounding the deal.

While Villa and Madrid vie for the striker, Al‑Hilal continue their pursuit of Ollie Watkins, signalling that the market remains active beyond the Jackson saga.