Emery ‘can sign perfect Watkins replacement’ for Aston Villa amid Chelsea update
Aston Villa have been inactive in the transfer window so far, but a big sale could spark their summer into life.
Missing out on Champions League football affected the club’s PSR position, and they have been unable to spend as heavily as some of their league rivals.
While Aston Villa managed to resolve their critical situation, they may still aim to replace some of their ageing players this summer with a long-term goal in mind.
Ollie Watkins faces an uncertain future, having been dropped from the starting XI in the latter half of last season, but if he leaves, Unai Emery may have the perfect replacement in mind.
Nicolas Jackson could leave Chelsea amid Watkins uncertainty
If Watkins is to leave, Villa would need to replace him, and may target a younger option as someone who can become the starter in the long term.
Emery could turn to a familiar face in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who could be set to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
| Stat | Watkins | Jackson |
| Appearances | 38 | 30 |
| Goals | 16 | 10 |
| Assists | 8 | 5 |
Fabrizio Romano has now reported that Jackson could be allowed to leave, with Premier League clubs interested, after Chelsea signed Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.
Jackson joined Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023, having broken into the first-team at the Spanish side under Emery, and despite some reservations fans may have, he could be a strong replacement for Watkins.
Jackson could replace Watkins
Jackson’s finishing has been questionable at times, but his movement and his all-round game has been impressive for a young striker under a lot of pressure at Chelsea.
Given time to develop and confidence, Jackson could progress well under Emery and become a strong focal point in attack.
If Watkins is to leave for a significant fee, a deal could be done to sign Jackson, which will see him reunite with Emery, and the 24-year-old could be the starter for years to come.
Jackson has provided 42 goal contributions in 81 games for Chelsea, and a change of environment could be what he needs to hit his best form.
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