Despite the lack of transfer activity for Aston Villa, it appears that there could be positive news on the way for fans. Nicolas Jackson, according to Fabrizio Romano, appears to be in a great position to join the claret and blue. Although the squad is mostly in a good spot despite the lack of additions, being able to add more forward depth would be of great help for Unai Emery.
Already familiar with the Senegal international through his time at Villarreal, the Spaniard appears highly keen on a reunion.
Having spent the past seasons with Chelsea, Jackson is a proven scorer in the Premier League. Particularly after coming off a renewed improvement of form, Jackson appeared to have solidified himself at Chelsea as a mainstay. Instead, it all but appears that Enzo Maresca is looking to move in another direction, leaving the possibility of the striker heading to B6.
There is the aspect of Ollie Watkins already being on the roster. Jackson certainly has the quality to be a regular starter in the Premier League. It would, however, be incredibly difficult to imagine a scenario that would see Watkins coming off the bench or sitting out too many games entirely. There is the possibility that Emery would view the need to provide the England international with more rest to help prevent injuries from occurring.
Critical decisions ahead for Aston Villa
Having depth and options can only help. What is more, Emery can be trusted to feel the pulse of the team and to make the right decisions from a team chemistry standpoint and on-the-pitch aspect.
This would open up the possibility of Emery using the 4-4-2 formation more often. There were glimpses of that tactical approach during the preseason. In either event, after selling a great deal of players and reaching loan agreements for others, it appears the Villa will now be able to have the big splash addition that all have been hoping for.