Sources: Aston Villa turn attention to two strikers from same club
Aston Villa are keeping tabs on Chelsea strikers Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson ahead of a potential move in January, sources have told Football Insider.
Chelsea loaned Jackson to Bayern Munich in the summer, but the German champions are not expected to sign the striker permanently.
Villa are exploring the market for a new striker despite Ollie Watkins‘ match-winning display against Brighton on Wednesday.
The England international scored twice at the AMEX Stadium as Unai Emery‘s side came from behind, but the forward has endured a poor start to the season.
Delap has found himself behind Joao Pedro in the pecking order at Chelsea, with Villa keen to capitalise on an opportunity to offer the 22-year-old a more prominent role.
Aston Villa to reignite summer interest
Villa were interested in a move for Jackson in the summer, with Unai Emery keen to bolster his options in attack.
The striker scored 13 goals across all competitions last season, but found himself set for a reduced role following the arrivals of Pedro and Delap.
In a transfer deadline day saga that was only resolved at the eleventh hour, Jackson eventually joined Bayern on loan with an obligation to buy linked to the number of appearances he makes.
The Senegal international has made 15 so far, with the clause thought to require the 24-year-old to feature in 40 fixtures before the end of the season.
But in October, Football Insider revealed that Bayern could allow Jackson to return to Chelsea in January, with Vincent Kompany unconvinced by the forward.
Given Villa’s previous interest, decision-makers at Villa Park could well head a pack of Premier League clubs keen to take advantage.
Ollie Watkins under pressure to rediscover Villa form as World Cup looms
Watkins enjoyed a stunning campaign for Villa last season, scoring 16 goals and providing eight assists across 38 Premier League appearances.
The striker had enjoyed a strong 2024 European Championship with England, and looked set to back up Harry Kane at the World Cup next year.
But the 29-year-old’s performances this season have left much to be desired, with his brace against Brighton tripling his tally across all competitions for the season.
Watkins does not face huge competition for his role in the England squad, with Thomas Tuchel lacking in-obvious alternatives.
But should Villa complete a move for Delap, Watkins may well be set for a feud at both the club and international levels.