ASTON VILLA are set to miss out on Nicolas Jackson despite strong interest in the striker over the last 48 hours, SunSport can exclusively reveal.
Jackson is a man in demand but Chelsea’s £70million valuation of the striker has proved a huge hurdle for Villa, who are struggling this year under ongoing Financial Fair Play regulations.
The Senegalese forward had his first proper European breakthrough under Unai Emery during their time together at Villarreal and both have stayed in touch since, SunSport has been told.
But any deal will involve huge figures given Jackson signed a new contract at Chelsea last September which included a substantial increase to his wages.
Newcastle have also shown interest in the striker and asked to be kept updated, but sources say another big club has been in contact with Jackson’s camp and talks are ongoing.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Jackson is fit and available after serving the final game of his three-match suspension, picked up for a red card at Newcastle last season.
However, Maresca also revealed the striker will not be involved in the squad given the uncertainty surrounding his future and the desire from both player and club to part ways this summer.
Maresca told reporters at Chelsea’s Surrey’s training ground ahead of the game against West Ham on Friday: “It’s better for Nico if what he desires is going to happen.
“He is available but he’s not going to be part of the squad because we have two players in that position and we know that something can happen before the transfer window closes.
“The player is open to leave. If he finds a good solution, he’s going to leave.”
Last month, SunSport exclusively reported that Italian duo Napoli and AC Milan had enquired about the Chelsea striker but were hit with the reality that they did not have the finances to meet both Chelsea’s valuation and the player’s demands.
Manchester United also looked at him but decided against a move before settling on Benjamin Sesko, following the signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Tottenham were mentioned earlier in the summer when Jackson first became available and could still make a move later if they sell Richarlison who, despite a strong start to the season, has been linked with an exit.
Another potential suitor is Bayern Munich, who have so far failed to replace the injured Jamal Musiala.
SunSport understands the German giants have asked Chelsea about both Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson this month.
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