Huge for Emery: “Unbelievable” Premier League player gives green light to Aston Villa move
An “unbelievable” Premier League forward has reportedly set his sights on joining Aston Villa this summer, in what could be a major coup for Unai Emery’s ambitious project in the Midlands.
Villa pushing for attacking reinforcements
Aston Villa begin their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a tough opening fixture against Newcastle United on Saturday lunchtime. Emery and his players will be eager to lay down an early marker after narrowly missing out on a Champions League spot last season. Strengthening their attacking depth remains a priority, and the club have already been linked with a host of potential signings in recent weeks.
One such name is Arsenal attacker Leandro Trossard, who could become available after slipping down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium. Reports suggest Villa have already opened talks over a possible deal, with the Belgian international keen to secure regular football at this stage of his career.
Elsewhere, the Villans are also monitoring Hector Fort, a highly rated 19-year-old right-back from Barcelona. Initial contact has reportedly been made between the two clubs, as uncertainty lingers over the youngster’s future in Spain following a reported clash with manager Hansi Flick.
Nicolas Jackson’s desire to reunite with Emery
However, the biggest transfer development surrounds Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. According to a fresh update from Football Insider, the Senegal international has “told friends” he wants to make the switch to Villa Park before the window closes.
Villa are understood to be in pole position to secure his signature, with the prospect of reuniting with Emery—his former boss at Villarreal—seen as a decisive factor. Jackson, who currently earns around £100,000 per week at Stamford Bridge, endured a mixed spell at Chelsea, impressing with his work rate and movement but facing criticism over his finishing.
At 24 years old, however, he is still regarded as a forward with huge potential. Emery’s track record of improving attacking players could make Villa the perfect environment for Jackson to flourish. The Spanish coach already knows his strengths and weaknesses intimately, meaning this would not be a gamble on an untested player.
Praise from respected figures
Former England striker Peter Crouch has been among those to praise Jackson, highlighting the often-overlooked side of his game:
> “I think he has been unbelievable. I looked at the stats from last year, and if you take penalties out of it, he’s ahead of Mo Salah. There’s only [Erling] Haaland that’s above him. So many technical players with ability and that have scored a lot of goals, he’s right up there with them. He probably needs a little bit more respect.”
Such numbers underline why Villa are so keen to bring him in, particularly as they prepare for a demanding season in both domestic and European competitions.
A long-term successor for Ollie Watkins?
Jackson’s arrival could also be viewed as part of Villa’s long-term planning. While Ollie Watkins remains the main man up front, the club are aware of the need to build for the future and ensure they are not overly reliant on one source of goals. Jackson’s energy, technical ability, and familiarity with Emery’s tactical demands could make him the ideal successor over time.
If Villa can finalise the deal, it would represent another statement of intent from a club determined to compete with the Premier League’s elite, proving that last season’s near miss was only the start of their journey.