(Credit: Imago)

Callum O'Connell

Tue 3 March 2026 15:33, UK

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Aston Villa have concerns about signing Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea and could switch their focus to singing another of their attacking targets this summer.

The 24-year-old has spent the season on loan at Bayern Munich but is not expected to make the permanent switch to Vincent Kompany’s side.

Chelsea remain keen to cash in on the Senegal international, however, and are attempting to drum up interest in a move to another European club this summer.

Former Aston Villa scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that they are unlikely to make a move for Jackson due to his lofty asking price and attitude concerns.

Despite having forged a strong relationship with Unai Emery at Villarreal, he may have to look elsewhere, with Aston Villa eyeing alternative strikers.

Aston Villa unlikely to pursue Nicolas Jackson deal

Football Insider revealed on 28 February that Jackson is still on Aston Villa’s radar after they missed out on a deal to sign him last summer.

However, there are concerns about his attitude behind the scenes which has contributed to Chelsea’s despite to move him on permanently.

“I have my doubts about Jackson,” Brown told Football Insider.

“From what I hear, there are a few question marks about his attitude and they’ve been there since his time at Chelsea, I think it’s a big reason they let him go.

“He’s gone over to Bayern Munich and not managed to be a regular there, he doesn’t have the consistency to be a first-choice striker at that level.

“So what about that suggests he would be good for Aston Villa? I know he has a relationship with Emery, but Villa have to look at all of the pros and cons.

“What type of money are Chelsea going to be asked for as well? Last summer it was around £70-80million I believe, Aston Villa aren’t going to pay that type of money.

“I think there are too many concerns about him, to be honest, so I would be surprised if Villa looked at him as the man to lead the line next season.

“If they do go and buy a new striker, I expect there will be a lot of targets on their radar and they’ll go for somebody else ahead of Jackson.”

What is next for Ollie Watkins at Villa Park?

Speculation about a potential move for Jackson has come as Aston Villa ramp up efforts to add more consistent attacking options to their side.

Tammy Abraham signed during the mid-season window and has enjoyed a positive start to life at Villa Park, but concerns have lingered about Ollie Watkins.

Football Insider exclusively revealed on 28 February that Watkins could leave Aston Villa as plans are being put in place to rebuild Emery’s forward line.

The 30-year-old has scored just eight goals in 38 appearances across all competitions so far this season including just one in his last six as Villa’s form has stuttered.

His continued struggles in front of goal have been highlighted by Abraham’s arrival, with the competition for places casting doubt over his position.