Unai Emery has prematurely announced that Aston Villa has signed Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea. Jackson was on course to join Atletico Madrid after being told his services were no longer required at Stamford Bridge.
But in light of Ollie Watkins’ desire to move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, Villa were in need of a new striker and set their sights on the Senegal international. It was reported on Thursday that the Villans had agreed on a £65million fee and though the club have not yet announced the transfer at the time of writing, Emery has confirmed it.
Emery confirms Jackson signing
‘Watkins said sorry after Brighton,’ the manager said in his press conference on Friday, ahead of Villa’s clash against Premier League champions Arsenal. ‘He made a mistake. He always had good behaviour in the club and with me.
‘He’s a fantastic guy. I told him “bye”, with a huge hug and a small cry.
‘Now it’s a new chapter with Nicolas Jackson. Of course all the best for him in Saudi. We are replacing him.’
Jackson eligible for Arsenal clash
In order to be eligible to face the Gunners on Sunday, Villa had to register Jackson in their squad by midday on Friday. They faced a race against time to do so and the Telegraph report that while the transfer is yet to be announced, the paperwork was submitted before the deadline and Jackson WILL be available to play at Villa Park.
Jackson previously played under Emery at Villarreal and had scored 30 goals in two seasons for Chelsea before he was exiled and loaned to Bayern Munich last season.
Villa’s rebuild continues
Arsenal will be heavy favourites for Sunday’s match, after Villa lost 4-0 to Brighton in their opening game, with almost all their key players sold this summer, including Ezri Konsa who has joined the Gunners. After Jackson, the Villans are now closing in on a move for AC Milan winger Rafa Leao.
