Nicolas Jackson tells friends he wants to join Aston Villa after two clubs swoop
Nicolas Jackson has told friends that he wants to join Aston Villa this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Villa and Newcastle United have both registered their interest in signing the striker, 24, as they look to strengthen their attacking ranks.
But it’s the Midlands giants who are in pole position to agree a deal given Jackson’s preference to reunite with Unai Emery at Villa Park.
Chelsea have set an £80million price tag on Jackson as they look to offload him, following the signings of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.
It is unlikely that Villa would be willing to pay a fee that high despite their strong interest, as they value Jackson more around the £60m mark.
The 24-year-old is keen to work with Emery again after they developed an impressive working relationship during their time at Villarreal.
Aston Villa get Nicolas Jackson boost after preliminary move
Back in June, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Aston Villa had made a preliminary move for Jackson.
The Midlands giants were in touch with the Senegal forward’s representative, discussing the early stages of a potential deal.
Villa have now received a big boost to their chances of landing Jackson, following the news that he has confessed his desire to join Emery’s side.
Over the course of his Chelsea career, the striker has scored 24 Premier League goals as well as picking up 10 top-flight assists.
Aston Villa move to re-sign star
Meanwhile, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Aston Villa are advancing in talks to re-sign Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain.
Emery is a big fan of the Spain international and keen to get him back to Villa Park, having signed him on loan in the January transfer window.
Sources say that talks between the relevant parties are underway and progressing well.
Asensio has one year remaining on his current contract with PSG, so a move away could suit both the player and club.
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