Chelsea are once again making headlines in the transfer market, with Aston Villa’s breakout star Morgan Rogers now topping their wishlist. The Blues are reportedly prepared to make a formal offer for the England international—potentially worth up to £80 million—should Villa initiate a move for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson. With both clubs navigating financial regulations and seeking to fine-tune their squads ahead of the new season, the transfer saga is heating up.
Chelsea’s Summer Spending Spree Shows No Signs of Slowing
Following a season of silverware and a return to Champions League football, Chelsea have already splashed out more than £210 million this summer. Under new manager Enzo Maresca, the club is reshaping its attacking options, having brought in Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens. However, with Noni Madueke’s move to Arsenal and uncertainty surrounding the futures of Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix, the West London club is eager to reinforce its forward line even further.
Chelsea’s aggressive transfer approach comes after a season that saw them lift both the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, finishing in the Premier League’s top four to boot.
Morgan Rogers Emerges as Prime Chelsea Target
The latest name on Chelsea’s radar is Morgan Rogers, who has rapidly risen in stature since joining Aston Villa from Middlesbrough for just £15 million in early 2024. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the 21-year-old delivered an outstanding campaign, netting 17 goals and providing 16 assists—form that earned him six England caps in the last international cycle.
Now, Rogers is attracting serious interest from Chelsea, who are reportedly ready to “push the boat out” to bring him to Stamford Bridge. His current valuation has skyrocketed, with Villa believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of £80 million.
Villa’s Interest in Nicolas Jackson Could Unlock Deal
The potential catalyst for Chelsea’s move? Villa’s growing interest in Nicolas Jackson. The striker may find his opportunities limited this season following the arrivals of Pedro and Delap. Although reports dismiss the possibility of a direct swap due to Premier League financial regulations, Chelsea are optimistic that Villa’s pursuit of Jackson could pave the way for their formal bid for Rogers.
According to sources, a bid from Villa for Jackson would likely trigger Chelsea’s immediate offer for Rogers, setting up a domino effect in the transfer market.
Financial Considerations Could Delay Final Decision
Despite the mounting speculation, it’s unlikely that any deal will be finalized immediately. Both clubs are under pressure to comply with Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and UEFA’s financial regulations. Villa, in particular, are reluctant to part with Rogers and are exploring other ways to balance the books—potentially offloading players like Ollie Watkins, Emiliano Martinez, or Leon Bailey instead.
Still, if suitable offers don’t materialize for their other stars, Villa may be forced to cash in on Rogers before the window closes.
What’s Next in the Rogers-Jackson Saga?
While Chelsea remain confident in landing their top attacking target, the situation remains fluid. The deal may drag into August as both clubs look to make financially sound decisions. For now, all eyes are on Villa’s next move—and whether their interest in Jackson will kickstart one of the summer’s most high-profile transfers.
