Ollie Watkins transfer speculation, Nicolas Jackson talks, Joel Ordonez pursuit

Aston Villa’s transfer activity remains focused on potential striker replacements as Ollie Watkins’ future continues to dominate headlines. According to The Guardian, Chelsea have opened talks with Villa over the sale of Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at £65m. Unai Emery previously worked with Jackson at Villarreal, and Villa are reportedly exploring payment structures to facilitate the deal. Meanwhile, Watkins is expected to join Al-Hilal, though Villa have rejected a £45m bid for the striker, according to the Birmingham Mail.

Villa are also pursuing defensive reinforcements, with Joel Ordonez of Club Brugge emerging as a key target. The Birmingham Mail reports that Villa hope to secure Ordonez on loan with an obligation to buy for around £25m next summer. The 22-year-old centre-back is currently injured but is expected to return to fitness in September.

Elsewhere, Villa’s summer rebuild has drawn criticism from pundits. Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher expressed concern over the squad’s depth following the departures of Ezri Konsa, Youri Tielemans, and Morgan Rogers, as reported by the Birmingham Mail. Ally McCoist also questioned Emery’s future, describing Villa’s squad as “decimated” after their 4-0 defeat to Brighton.

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