Chelsea are set to activate Nicolas Jackson’s €35 million release clause as discussions with Villarreal over the structure are underway.
Fabrizio Romano insisted Chelsea have agreed to pay Nicolas Jackson’s €35 million release clause. The Blues are now discussing the deal’s structure with Villarreal, as the 21-year-old forward reportedly wants to join the Stamford Bridge outfit over other suitors.
Nicolas Jackson has had a good season with Villarreal, scoring 12 La Liga goals. His hot streak of form has attracted interest from many clubs, including a few from the Premier League. While he seems destined to depart Villarreal in the summer, Chelsea are the clear favourites to land the Senegal international.
Chelsea have been at the odds to sign the striker as they have a concrete interest in Jackson. The Blues seemingly stepped up their chase of the 21-year-old forward after it became clear Kai Havertz would leave them for another challenge.
Arsenal inches close to signing Havertz, and Chelsea are open to selling him for the right price. A curious situation is brewing at Stamford Bridge, as the club is still looking to replace potential exits with young stars.
Understand Chelsea are closing in on Nico Jackson deal — Villarreal informed today that €35m bid is set to be sent to match release clause 🚨🔵 #CFC
Chelsea & Villarreal, discussing installments as expected.
Jackson agreed long term deal; only wants Chelsea.
Matter of time. pic.twitter.com/MrZ1cqLz31
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2023
For instance, they are losing many club-experienced stars like Havertz, Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic. For the latter, they want to bring Moises Caicedo, who remains a formidable name but is still vastly inexperienced.
Similarly, they have especially chased Jackson with vigour and convinced the player of a move. Fabrizio Romano follows up on his earlier information that Chelsea were keen to pay the release clause and reaffirms the 21-year-old forward has already agreed on personal terms.
Romano added that Jackson only wants a move to Chelsea, thus landing a blow to suitors like Tottenham, who have remained somewhat hopeful. It’s an interesting signing for the Blues, although there will be questions regarding Jackson’s adaptability to a tough league.
As things stand, the 21-year-old forward has a €35 million release clause, which Chelsea have agreed to pay. They are now discussing with Villarreal to structure the instalments, meaning the Spanish side will not receive the amount in one shot.
It could become a sensible deal for Chelsea in light of growing speculation about FFP regulations. If they intend to replace Havertz with Jackson, there’s some wisdom in profiteering from such a decision. Whether the 21-year-old forward shines from the go remains the question, but undoubtedly an interesting transfer.
