Atlético Madrid hold London talks for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson loan as race heats up with Villa and Spurs

Atletico Madrid have held talks with Chelsea in London to discuss a loan deal for Nicolas Jackson.

Jackson is training away from the first-team squad at Chelsea as he looks to finalise an exit before the deadline. The Senegal striker has returned to West London after spending the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Bayern Munich, where he scored 11 goals in all competitions.

Atletico Madrid have now entered the race to sign Jackson. Journalist Nicolo Shira has repoted that a meeting between Atletico and Chelsea representatives was held in the capital on Thursday to discuss terms.

Chelsea are open to allowing Jackson to leave on loan, with an option to boy, and 'talks are progressing' between the clubs.

The Spanish side are not alone in expressing interest in Jackson, with Aston Villa also keen, as Unai Emery targets a reunion with his former Villarreal player.

Chelsea would prefer not to strengthen a top-four rival, unless Aston Villa are prepared to meet Jackson's £65m price tag. Tottenham Hotspur have also considered a move.

Atletico's interest in Jackson could impact Julian Alvarez's future. The La Liga side have insisted that Alvarez is not for sale at any price this summer, amid interest from Barcelona.

Alvarez has informed Atletico of his wish to leave for the Camp Nou, and was left out of the squad for Atletico's season-opener against Malaga this week.