Napoli Rival Aston Villa in Nicolas Jackson Race as Talks Begin
Napoli have entered the race for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, setting up a potential battle with Aston Villa for the Senegal international as the summer transfer window approaches its final stages.
The Italian champions have reportedly opened discussions with Chelsea regarding Jackson, who is understood to be available for a permanent transfer. Napoli have identified the 25-year-old as one of several attacking options as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge has become increasingly uncertain. The striker spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals, but has returned to Chelsea with his long-term position at the club unclear. Recent reports indicate that he is among the players currently training separately from the main first-team group as Chelsea attempt to reduce the size of their squad.
Chelsea are believed to prefer a permanent sale rather than another loan, with reports placing Jackson’s valuation in the region of £60 million to £65 million. That price could prove significant for Napoli, who are also considering other attacking targets, including Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee and Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus.
Napoli’s interest is not entirely new. The Serie A club had previously requested information about Jackson, but the financial requirements surrounding a potential deal have been a major obstacle. According to comments attributed to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna is a strong admirer of Jackson, although the striker is currently considered beyond the club’s budget.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, could have a major role to play in determining Jackson’s next destination. The Premier League club have been monitoring the striker and could make a move if Ollie Watkins leaves Villa Park. Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal have reportedly shown interest in Watkins, with the England international said to be open to a move.
If Watkins departs, Villa would suddenly have a pressing need for another established striker, potentially making Jackson a leading target. The situation could give Chelsea leverage, particularly if Villa are prepared to meet the asking price that Napoli currently find difficult to accommodate.
For Jackson, a move away from Chelsea could provide an opportunity to restart his career after an uncertain period. His pace, physical strength and ability to operate across the frontline make him an attractive option for clubs looking for a versatile forward. A move to Napoli would offer Champions League football and the chance to compete in Serie A, while Aston Villa could provide the familiarity of Premier League football and a manager in Unai Emery who has previously worked with Jackson.
With the transfer window nearing its conclusion, the situation could develop quickly. Napoli have begun exploring the possibility of a deal, while Villa’s interest could become more serious depending on Watkins’ future. Chelsea, meanwhile, will be keen to resolve Jackson’s situation and secure an agreement that fits their plans for squad restructuring.
The race is therefore far from settled. Napoli may have made the first move, but Aston Villa remain a serious contender, and the final decision could ultimately depend on Chelsea’s valuation and whether Villa lose Watkins before deadline day.
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