Nicolas Jackson has completed a transfer to Aston Villa, reuniting with manager Unai Emery ahead of the new Premier League season. The Senegalese forward, 25, moved from Chelsea in a deal reportedly worth an initial £47.5 million. In a related transaction, goalkeeper Emi Martinez joined Chelsea for approximately £7.5 million as part of the exchange.

Jackson’s move to Villa marks a return to working under Emery, who managed him during his tenure at Villarreal between 2020 and 2022. Speaking ahead of Aston Villa’s upcoming match against reigning Premier League champions Arsenal, Jackson expressed enthusiasm about rejoining Emery’s squad. He highlighted Emery’s influential role in his development and voiced his ambition to contribute goals and help the team achieve success.

“I’m very happy to be here and working for [Emery] again,” Jackson said. “We will work and push together as always, try to achieve things together like we did in Villarreal. Hopefully we can achieve that and win some trophies.”

Jackson effectively replaces England international Ollie Watkins, who recently departed Aston Villa for Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in a transfer reportedly valued at £51 million. Villa’s acquisition of Jackson is seen as a key step in filling the void left by Watkins’ exit, with the club aiming to maintain competitive momentum under Emery’s guidance.

The player’s return to Emery’s side, combined with the recent squad changes, signals Aston Villa’s ambition to challenge at a higher level in the Premier League and in cup competitions this season.