Aston Villa considering Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson if Ollie Watkins leaves
What's the story
Aston Villa are reportedly considering a move for Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson, if they end up selling their star striker Ollie Watkins to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. According to Sky Sports News, Jackson is valued at £65 million by Chelsea. The Saudi Pro League club has been in talks with Villa for Watkins, who is keen on a move to the Middle East.
Transfer negotiations
Al-Hilal's interest in Watkins, who has 108 goals for Villa
Al-Hilal have already had at least one bid for Watkins turned down, with their first offer being around £38.5 million.
Despite Villa's reluctance to part ways with Watkins, Al-Hilal are pushing hard to sign the England international.
Last season, he scored 16 league goals and played a key role in helping Villa win the UEFA Europa League.
Overall, Watkins has made 278 appearances for Villa, scoring 108 goals.
91 of his goals have come in the Premier League from 221 appearances.
Player links
Atletico Madrid are also keen on Jackson
Atletico Madrid are also interested in Jackson, but they prefer a loan deal. Chelsea, however, want a permanent transfer after Jackson's loan spell at Bayern Munich last season.
Notably, Villa manager Unai Emery has a history with Jackson from their time together at Villarreal.
The strong relationship between Chelsea and Villa could also facilitate this potential transfer.
Jackson made 81 appearances for Chelsea and scored 30 goals.
For Bayern, he scored 11 goals from 34 appearances last season.
Coach's comments
Emery on Watkins's potential move to Al Hilal
Ahead of Villa's match against Brighton, Emery addressed the ongoing speculation around Watkins's future.
He told reporters, "We had offers for him but he is our player. I don't want to sell him but it can change if it is a good option for him."
Emery also clarified that he wasn't aware if Watkins had requested a transfer.
Player updates
Benzema's contract situation and Martinez's desire to leave Villa
Al-Hilal are eyeing Watkins as a potential replacement for Karim Benzema. The Saudi club is also looking at ways to resolve the Frenchman's contract situation.
Meanwhile, Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has expressed his desire to leave the club for "another challenge" in his career. Despite this, he remains with Villa after a move to Juventus fell through.