Napoli join Aston Villa in race for Senegal and Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson

Napoli have reportedly joined Aston Villa in the race to sign Senegal international forward Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea before the summer transfer window closes.

The Serie A champions are exploring options to strengthen their attacking department and have identified Jackson as one of the forwards who could be brought in to bolster their squad.

The 24-year-old Senegalese striker is understood to be available for a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, potentially opening the door for Napoli to make a move before the transfer deadline.

Napoli are particularly keen to add another centre-forward following the departure of Romelu Lukaku to Turkish side Fenerbahce. The Belgian striker’s exit has left the Italian champions looking for additional experience and quality in the final third.

Jackson has emerged as an attractive option due to his pace, movement and ability to operate as a central striker. His experience in the Premier League and at international level with Senegal could also make him a valuable addition to Napoli’s squad.

According to reports, Napoli have already made enquiries regarding both Jackson and Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee as they continue to assess their options ahead of the transfer deadline.

The Italian club are therefore keeping multiple possibilities open as they look to find the right attacking reinforcement for the new campaign.

However, Napoli are not alone in their interest in Jackson. Aston Villa have also been linked with the former Villarreal striker as they consider strengthening their own attacking options.

The growing interest could lead to increased competition for the Senegal international, particularly with the summer transfer window approaching its closing stages.

For Jackson, a potential departure from Chelsea would represent another important step in his career. The striker joined the London club after impressing during his time in Spain and has since gained valuable experience in English football.

Despite showing flashes of his ability at Chelsea, uncertainty over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge has continued to fuel speculation over a possible transfer.

Napoli could now offer him an opportunity to begin a fresh chapter in Serie A, while Aston Villa remain another possible destination.

With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Napoli are expected to continue evaluating Jackson alongside other targets, with their enquiries for both the Chelsea forward and Zirkzee indicating their determination to strengthen the position before the window closes.

Jackson’s next move could therefore become one of the stories to watch closely as clubs make their final moves in the summer transfer market.