Chelsea 'set to trigger Nicolas Jackson release clause'

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to activate the release clause of Villarreal striker Nicolas Jackson.

The Blues are currently short of forward options, with Romelu Lukaku and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang expected to depart the club this summer.

Armando Broja is still recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, while there is uncertainty surrounding the future of Kai Havertz.

Bayern Munich and Arsenal have been linked with the Germany international, and the Gunners have already had an offer rejected.

With Mauricio Pochettino keen to sign a striker this summer, Chelsea have identified Jackson as someone that could solve their forward crisis.

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A recent report claimed that the Blues have agreed personal terms with the forward, and they are looking to reach an agreement with Villarreal.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are prepared to trigger Jackson's release clause, which is said to be €35m (£29.9m).

The Blues are hoping to pay the fee in instalments and they are now in discussions with Villarreal over a payment plan.

Chelsea are pushing to get the deal over the line, with three other clubs prepared to pay the player's release clause.

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Should they complete the transfer, Jackson is expected to put pen to paper on a five-year deal until the summer of 2028.

Jackson, who is currently under contract until June 2026, was close to joining Bournemouth in January, but the move fell through after he failed a medical.

The 21-year-old impressed for Villarreal during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring 13 goals in 38 games across all competitions.

The Senegal international rounded off the season in red-hot form, racking up nine goals in eight matches, including three braces.