’s deal for Villarreal star Nico Jackson has been hit by a complication over the player’s release clause, according to reports.
The Blues have agreed personal terms with Jackson and .
Chelsea are desperate to sign a new forward ahead of the 2023-24 season with heavily linked to Arsenal.
Jackson registered 12 goals across 26 games in La Liga for Villarreal last season and almost joined AFC in January before a deal fell through at the last minute due to a failed medical.
The 22-year-old has a €35m release clause which Villarreal want Chelsea to pay in full up front.
But according to , the west club are trying to pay the fee in instalments instead, which has led to a complication.
Other indicate that Chelsea may try to offer Villarreal players on loan as part of the deal.
Chelsea have spent £653.7m on 20 players since Todd Boehly arrived as co-owner last summer and the club could be in danger of a Financial Fair Play breach.
That may be one reason as to why they are keen to bring down Jackson’s €35m price tag – with Chelsea plotting moves for several other players this summer.
Their desire to bring in multiple players means they will have to offload several members of their current squad – with a few Chelsea players linked to clubs in Saudi Arabia and Mason Mount rumoured to be heading to Manchester United.
