Aston Villa has officially signed Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea for a reported club-record fee of 65 million pounds ($88 million). The announcement came as Jackson agreed to a five-year contract with the Europa League champions.

Reunion with Unai Emery

This move reunites Jackson with Villa manager Unai Emery, who previously worked with the 25-year-old at Villarreal. Emery had hinted at Jackson's signing during a press conference on Friday, where he previewed the upcoming match against Arsenal.

Replacing Ollie Watkins

Jackson's arrival at Villa Park comes as a direct response to the impending departure of Ollie Watkins. The 50-million-pound ($68 million) transfer of Watkins to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal is nearing completion. Jackson had been training away from Chelsea's squad after being informed by manager Xabi Alonso that he was not part of the team's plans. During his time at Chelsea, Jackson scored 30 goals in 81 appearances across all competitions, contributing to the club's victories in the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.

Before his transfer, Jackson spent the previous season on loan at Bayern Munich, where he netted 11 goals and helped the team secure the Bundesliga title and the German Cup. He has also represented Senegal 37 times, participating in both the 2022 and 2026 World Cups. With Watkins' exit confirmed by Emery, Jackson joins a list of players, including Ezri Konsa, Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Lucas Digne, who have recently left Villa Park.