Aston Villa and Chelsea have discussed a potential player exchange involving Nicolas Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano. The two Premier League clubs raised both forwards as options during negotiations for Morgan Rogers, though any deal faces complications with the Argentine winger preferring a switch to AS Roma.
Romano revealed on social media that "Nicolas Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho, both discussed among options between Aston Villa and Chelsea - as revealed last week. Names mentioned during the key meeting for Morgan Rogers. Garnacho gives priority to AS Roma but no agreement yet with Chelsea."
"Nicolas Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho, both discussed among options between Aston Villa and Chelsea... Garnacho gives priority to AS Roma but no agreement yet with Chelsea."
Chelsea Value Jackson at £65m
According to Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport, Chelsea have placed a £65m valuation on Jackson, with Aston Villa among clubs to have held talks. The 23-year-old Senegalese striker joined Chelsea from Villarreal for approximately £32m in June 2023, meaning the Blues are seeking to double their investment after just under two years. Jackson, who has a contract until June 2031, previously worked under Villa manager Unai Emery during his time at Villarreal, where he scored 12 goals in 26 La Liga appearances during the 2022-23 season before his Stamford Bridge switch.
Garnacho's Roma Preference Complicates Deal
The 20-year-old Garnacho, contracted to Manchester United until June 2028, is reportedly prioritising a move to Serie A giants Roma over a transfer to Aston Villa. The Argentine winger, currently valued at approximately €60m, came through United's academy and has established himself as a first-team regular. His preference for the Italian capital represents a significant obstacle to any potential swap arrangement between Villa and Chelsea, particularly as no agreement has yet been reached between Roma and the relevant parties.
Fee Analysis: Premium Price for Jackson
Chelsea's £65m asking price for Jackson represents a substantial markup on their original £32m investment. The Senegalese forward has shown promise at Stamford Bridge with pace and work rate, though his finishing has drawn criticism at times. For a player who turns 24 in June and has mixed Premier League form across 18 months, the valuation appears ambitious in the current market. Villa would essentially be paying a premium for Emery's familiarity with the striker from their Villarreal days, banking on the Spanish coach unlocking the consistency Jackson has occasionally lacked in west London.
Reliability: 3/5. The story is backed by Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs, both established sources, though the talks remain at an exploratory stage with no advanced negotiations confirmed and Garnacho's Roma preference adding uncertainty.
