Atletico Madrid rival Aston Villa for Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson

Atletico Madrid are intensifying their search for a new striker. With Alexander Sorloth sidelined by injury and Julian Alvarez staying at the club, the Spanish side has identified Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson as a key target to bolster their attacking line.

Director of football Mateu Alemany has traveled to London to lead negotiations. Atletico are currently exploring a loan deal, given their financial constraints following the high-profile signing of Cuti Romero, a deal worth €33 million plus an additional €7 million in variables. Alemany has publicly acknowledged the difficulty of the current market, citing inflation and intense competition for top-tier talent.

Jackson is well-acquainted with Spanish football, having spent two seasons at Villarreal between 2021 and 2023. During that tenure, he made 48 appearances, recording 13 goals and six assists.

However, Atletico face significant competition from Aston Villa. The Premier League side is managed by Unai Emery, who handed Jackson his senior debut at Villarreal. Villa view the forward as a primary option should Ollie Watkins potentially move to Saudi Arabia.

Despite the interest, Jackson remains reportedly determined to compete for his spot at Stamford Bridge, where he is under contract until 2033. The Senegal international has contributed 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances for the Blues since his arrival.