Chelsea sign Villarreal striker Nicolas Jackson | OneFootball

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Villarreal striker Nicolas Jackson.

The Senegalese striker has signed an eight-year deal until 2031, and the Blues will pay a reported €37 million, which is a little over his release clause.

Jackson switches Spain for England after enjoying a stellar second half of the last campaign helping the Yellow Submarines secure qualification for next season’s Europa League tournament.

After shaking off a rocky opening half of the campaign, the 22-year-old finished the season strongly, notching nine goals and two assists in the final eight games.

Jackson becomes Chelsea’s second first-team signing of the Premier League transfer window following Christopher Nkunku, who completed a move from the Bundesliga club RB Leipzig.

Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley were delighted to welcome the young striker into the fold as they continue the squad overhaul.

“We are excited to welcome Nicolas to Chelsea,” they said. “He is a young player with big potential, as he showcased for Villarreal last season.

“We believe he is ready for this next step in his career and look forward to him working with our new head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, and his Chelsea teammates.”

It is unclear whether Chelsea will still pursue an elite striker this summer after signing Jackson, but they have shown a willingness to bet on the youngster ahead of next season.

Jackson’s arrival could open the door for David Datro Fofana or Armando Broja to exit Stamford Bridge on loan in search of regular playing time.

Chelsea are currently focusing more on outgoing transfers, with six first-team players already leaving the club.

However, they will reportedly through their weight at signing Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo when the dust settles.