Aston Villa are set to bolster their attacking options after reaching an agreement with Chelsea to bring Nicolas Jackson to Villa Park.

The transfer fee could climb as high as £65m, a figure that aligns with what Chelsea had been asking for the Senegalese international.

The move fits into Chelsea’s broader summer strategy, which has centered on offloading both Jackson and fellow forward Liam Delap as the club looks to reshape its attacking department.

Jackson’s path to Villa comes after an unsuccessful loan spell at Bayern Munich last season.

The German giants had negotiated an option to make the move permanent for roughly £56.25m, but that clause was tied to Jackson hitting a specific appearance threshold one he ultimately fell short of, allowing him to return to Chelsea’s books.

Interestingly, Villa isn’t the only club interested in securing his signature. Atletico Madrid have also been tracking the striker, though their financial package is unlikely to match what Villa can offer.

Jackson’s familiarity with Unai Emery, having previously worked under him during their time together at Villarreal, may prove influential in his decision to join.

The timing of this deal is notable given Villa’s ongoing negotiations to part ways with Ollie Watkins.

The England striker has attracted interest from Saudi Pro League outfit Al Hilal, and reports suggest he’s open to making that move himself, despite at least one offer already being turned down by Villa.

Jackson could ultimately step in as his replacement should that transfer materialize.