Tottenham join Aston Villa in race for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, according to the Daily Mail.

Spurs are aiming to strengthen their attack this summer. Only seven teams scored fewer Premier League goals than the north London side last season.

They have also been linked with Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi, but a move now appears unlikely following the injury to the young French striker.

Tottenham have now added Jackson to their shortlist, with sporting director Johan Lange understood to be a long-term admirer of the Chelsea forward.

Tottenham face competition from Aston Villa for Jackson’s signature. Villa manager Unai Emery worked with the striker at Villarreal.

Jackson is prepared to leave Chelsea this summer in search of guaranteed game time. The Blues value him at around £65 million.

Villa may edge Spurs to Jackson

Jackson’s Premier League experience makes him an attractive option for both clubs. He has scored 24 goals and provided 10 assists in 65 matches in the competition.

That said, Villa could hold an advantage in the race, having done business with Chelsea in the current transfer window.

Villa sold Morgan Rogers to the Blues in a British record deal last month, while signing Alejandro Garnacho on loan from the London-based outfit.

By contrast, Chelsea rarely do business with Tottenham due to the local rivalry between them. No player has moved directly between them since Scott Parker’s switch to Spurs in 2011.

Jackson’s previous relationship with Emery and the prospect of Champions League football could also persuade the former Villarreal star to favour a move to Villa.

Jackson is currently with the Chelsea squad in Hong Kong, preparing for Wednesday’s pre-season friendly with Italian giants Juventus.