Aston Villa step up talks to sign Chelsea star

Aston Villa have stepped up negotiations with Chelsea to sign striker Nicolas Jackson this summer.

The Blues recently secured the services of Morgan Rogers from the Villans for a club-record fee of 117 million pounds.

Villa are likewise expected to do business with the Blues and it is claimed that Jackson has emerged as a top target for them.

Villa manager Unai Emery previously managed Jackson during their time at Villarreal and he is now looking at a reunion.

Talks are underway between the sides and a package of around 50 million pounds could be sufficient to secure an agreement.

Jackson is unlikely to block a potential transfer, given the prospect of Champions League football and working again with Emery.

The move could have an effect on the future of Ollie Watkins, who has been linked with a possible move to the Saudi Pro League.

Arsenal were formerly admirers of the England international, but they are no longer exploring a move for the former Brentford man.