Atlético Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of Nicolas Jackson after sporting chief Mateu Alemany travelled to London and held talks over the Chelsea striker. Jackson is keen on a La Liga return, but Chelsea want a permanent sale while Atlético prefer a loan.
Atlético Madrid have taken a major step in their pursuit of Nicolas Jackson, with Mateu Alemany travelling to London as the club explore a late move for the Chelsea striker.
Jackson has quickly risen up Atlético’s shortlist in the final weeks of the transfer window.
What started as interest has now become active behind-the-scenes work.
AS reports Alemany travelled to London to assess Jackson’s situation, while Fabrizio Romano adds that talks were held with the player’s representatives.
Jackson is understood to be open to a return to La Liga.
However, a key issue remains: Atlético prefer a loan, while Chelsea insist on a permanent sale.
Alemany’s London mission
Alemany’s trip is the clearest sign yet of Atlético’s intent.
He reportedly missed club duties in Madrid to focus on the deal, meeting Jackson’s camp in England.
Atlético are now actively exploring how a transfer could be structured.
No agreement has been reached, but interest is growing quickly.
Loan vs permanent sale
Atlético want a loan deal to avoid a large upfront fee, especially after Jackson’s 11-goal loan spell at Bayern last season.
Chelsea, however, are firm: they want a permanent transfer.
This gap in valuation is currently the biggest obstacle.
Unless Chelsea soften, Atlético may need to choose between a full bid or waiting until late in the window.
Jackson open to La Liga return
Jackson is reportedly keen on returning to Spain, where he previously impressed at Villarreal before joining Chelsea.
He is familiar with La Liga and would not need time to adapt.
This gives Atlético an advantage on the player side of negotiations.
Why Atlético want him
Atlético are still looking for attacking reinforcements before the window closes.
Jackson offers pace, versatility, and experience in both La Liga and the Premier League.
At 25, he also still has room to develop into a more consistent striker.
Sørloth situation could be decisive
Alexander Sørloth’s future may directly impact the deal.
Trabzonspor are interested, and Atlético value him at over €30m.
If he leaves, Jackson becomes a much easier signing financially and tactically.
His arrival could depend on whether Sørloth stays or departs.
Competition from Aston Villa
Aston Villa remain serious contenders and are open to a permanent deal, which suits Chelsea more.
Unai Emery is a long-time admirer of Jackson, giving Villa a strong negotiating position.
Atlético may have the player’s preference, but Villa may have Chelsea’s.
Chelsea’s stance complicates deal
Chelsea also have limited international loan slots, making another overseas loan less attractive.
This could further push them toward a permanent sale or a Premier League loan instead.
Deal likely to go late
Chelsea are prepared to wait for the right permanent offer, meaning this could drag into deadline day.
Atlético must decide whether to wait, bid, or move on.
Jackson wants Spain, Atlético want him, but Chelsea want a sale.
Alternative options
Atlético are also monitoring other strikers, including Gabriel Jesus, if the Jackson deal collapses.
This ensures they will not wait indefinitely.
Jackson’s return to Spain
Jackson scored 13 goals for Villarreal in 2022/23 before moving to Chelsea.
After mixed spells in England and Germany, a return to La Liga could offer a reset.
Atlético would provide a demanding but familiar environment under Diego Simeone.
Why Simeone likes him
Jackson’s pace, pressing, and ability to attack space make him a strong tactical fit for Atlético’s transition-based style.
He can play centrally or drift wide, offering flexibility in attack.
Chelsea hold the key
The outcome now depends on Chelsea’s stance.
If they insist on a sale, Atlético must either increase their offer or wait for late-window changes.
Aston Villa’s interest adds further pressure.
