Nicolas Jackson has reached an agreement to join Atletico Madrid, but Chelsea are holding out for an offer from Aston Villa, according to reports in Spain.
Chelsea are open to offloading Jackson before the end of the summer transfer window, and Atletico’s sporting director, Mateu Alemany, was in London on Thursday to discuss a deal for the Senegal international.
Jackson approves move to Diego Simeone’s side
According to Marca, Jackson has now approved a move to Diego Simeone’s side, but Atletico have not managed to reach an agreement with Chelsea. The report claims that Jackson views Atletico as ‘the most appealing’ destination, however, Chelsea’s preference is to sell Jackson rather than see the striker leave on another season-long loan.
Chelsea are now said to be waiting for Villa to step forward with an offer for Jackson before the window closes.
Villa in the market for a striker
Villa remain in the market to sign a striker as they face the prospect of selling Ollie Watkins to Al-Hilal. Earlier this week, Villa rejected a bid of €45 million (£38.5m) from the Saudi Pro League side for the England international.
Jackson is also understood to be open to joining Aston Villa, where he would be reunited with Unai Emery, having played under the Spaniard at Villarreal.
Chelsea demand £60m fee
Chelsea are demanding a £60m fee for Jackson, who has scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for the club. Jackson was left out of Chelsea’s squad for their final pre-season friendly last Saturday, as Xabi Alonso’s side sealed a 3-1 win against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge.
