Nicolas Jackson has recently emerged as a Chelsea target as Mauricio Pochettino hopes to further bolster his frontline this summer. The Blues were initially linked with big-money moves for the likes of Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen but, with Todd Boehly working hard to balance the books, the Villarreal striker has been eyed as a shrewd alternative.
The 21-year-old featured 14 times for the Yellow Submarine in the first half of the season before suffering an injury – in this time he directly contributed towards four goals and even played a major role in a win over Atletico Madrid. Jackson's performances caught the eye of Bournemouth, who almost prised him to the Vitality Stadium in January.
Upon his return in the new year, the youngster scored 10 goals in his final 12 games of the La Liga season, winning the player of the month award in May. The Senegal international's impressive performances caught the eye of Chelsea, who now look set to wrap up a deal for the hitman.
So, with that being said, football.london have taken a look at the latest headlines concerning the future of Jackson as he closes in a move to Stamford Bridge.
Medical complete
Chelsea have completed the medical for striker Nicolas Jackson this weekend as Fabrizio Romano claims that the first part of the tests were sorted on Saturday, June 24, while the second was completed on Sunday, June 25. His agent, Diomansy Kamara, all but confirmed the deal on social media too, posting on Instagram: "Medical done. Deal on the way. Not finished yet. No rush, god time is always the best, Nicolas Jackson."
Final details complete
Chelsea have reached an full agreement with Villareal for the transfer of Nicolas Jackson, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
The striker had a €35m (£29.9m) release clause but the Blues have agreed to pay a slightly higher fee and do so through instalments.
Medical in London
According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, Jackson will travel to London for his Chelsea medical this week and sign a five-year contract with an option for another year. The report states that the Blues have beaten Everton, AC Milan and an unnamed German club to his signature.
Release clause triggered
Chelsea have activated the release clause of Nicolas Jackson in his Villarreal contract, according to Fabrizio Romano. As a result, the Blues are set to pay €35million (£30m) but are discussing the installments the transaction will be paid in as other clubs circle a deal.
The contract is also said to be a long-term one, potentially solving Chelsea's goal scoring troubles for the season ahead.
READ MORE: Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Kalidou Koulibaly exit, Moises Caicedo swap, Mason Mount bid
Terms agreed
Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Nicolas Jackson over a switch to Stamford Bridge in the coming weeks, reports The Athletic. The youngster has committed to the move, with the Blues looking to strike a deal with Villarreal to get the transfer over the line before other clubs are involved.
Emery verdict
While there may be concerns over the Chelsea target, Unai Emery has already explained what makes Jackson a special talent. As quoted by One Football, the former Villarreal boss said: "He is a player who is in the process of growing.
"There are times when some players have to go elsewhere to grow, but we are betting on him because his contribution is very high. He must get experience in front of goal and this is a learning process.
"We need to establish young players and we want to bet on them. Two years ago [Alex] Baena had the same problem as Jackson."
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