The 25-year-old has joined on a permanent transfer for an initial fee of £47.5 million, which could rise to £65 million with add-ons. Jackson has signed a five-year contract at Villa Park with the option of a further 12 months.
The move reunites Jackson with Villa manager Unai Emery, under whom he previously played at Villarreal during the 2022-23 season. There he scored 12 goals in 26 La Liga appearances before his switch to Chelsea.
Jackson joined the Blues from Villarreal in 2023 and went on to make 81 appearances, scoring 30 goals across all competitions. He contributed to Chelsea’s successes in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Last season he spent time on loan at Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals and helped the German side win the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double.
The signing addresses Villa’s need for attacking reinforcement following a busy summer of departures. Ollie Watkins is set to leave for Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in a deal worth around £50 million, while Morgan Rogers has already moved to Chelsea in a British record transfer. Other high-profile exits have included Ezri Konsa, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne.
Jackson becomes Villa’s most expensive signing, surpassing the previous club-record fee paid earlier in the window. The Senegal forward, who has earned 37 international caps and represented his country at the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, is expected to provide pace, physicality and goal threat under Emery’s system.
Villa’s statement confirmed the arrival of the “37-cap Senegal international, who represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” welcoming him to the club and noting his previous successful spell under Emery.
The striker’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the Midlands club as they look to rebuild and challenge for a strong Premier League campaign and continued European involvement. Jackson is set to begin training with his new teammates and could be available for selection in the coming fixtures.