According to a report from FootballTransfers, on Tues November 03, 2026, Chelsea’s decision to part with Nicolas Jackson is looking increasingly questionable.

The Senegalese striker has found his scoring touch at Aston Villa, turning an unremarkable start to the season into a prolific run of form.

Jackson has scored eight goals over the past two months, including a brace against Manchester City and another goal against Fulham. Five of his strikes have come in the Premier League, where only Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak have scored more.

Villa signed Jackson from Chelsea in the summer for an initial €55 million, with bonuses potentially taking the fee to €76 million. Chelsea had also received a €16.5 million loan fee from Bayern Munich the previous season, making the deal look lucrative. But Jackson’s recent performances have raised a question: did the London club move on from him too quickly?

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca reportedly lost confidence in the forward because of inconsistent finishing and disciplinary concerns. Jackson was subsequently deemed surplus to requirements.

Yet his broader abilities had impressed data analysts, who rated him highly in many areas of the centre-forward role, despite his goal-scoring record needing improvement.

His progress at Villa is notable given his earlier connection with Unai Emery. Emery helped Jackson break through at Villarreal before Chelsea signed him in 2023.

The striker now appears to be thriving under the same manager, suggesting Villa may be finding the consistency that eluded him at Stamford Bridge.

Miguel Alvarez, who coached Villarreal’s reserve team, told Mundo Deportivo that Jackson had shown “incredible talent” from an early age. He recalled that after injuries and an unsuccessful loan spell at Mirandés, Jackson was moved from the wing into a central role. Alvarez believed playing as a second striker suited him better and allowed his strengths to shine.

The former coach said Jackson always had a natural instinct for goal, while his finishing and technique have improved with experience. He also praised the forward’s pace, strength and movement, noting that Jackson has learned to time his runs and exploit space behind defenders.

Jackson’s rise is still unfolding, but his strong start at Villa has made Chelsea’s decision look less straightforward. The club may have secured a substantial fee, yet they could also have let go of a striker whose best years and best form are still ahead.