Bournemouth have reportedly moved to the brink of winning the race for Villarreal forward Nicolas Jackson.
Ever since the club's successful takeover at the back end of 2022, it has been expected that the Cherries would be active during the January transfer window.
Last week, it was revealed that Dango Ouattara had departed Lorient to make the switch to the Vitality Stadium, going on to contribute an assist on his debut during the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
However, given Bournemouth's issues in the final third of the pitch, they have continued to be linked with other attack-minded additions.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the South-coast outfit have agreed to sign Jackson with a fee and personal terms having been agreed.
© Reuters
Bournemouth are said to be ready to pay €23m (£20.3m) plus €2.5m (£2.2m) in add-ons to get a deal over the line for the 21-year-old.
Should a transfer be finalised in due course, Bournemouth would have seen off the challenge of several Premier League rivals, including the likes of Aston Villa and Southampton.
Jackson has made a total of 10 starts and 10 substitute appearances for Villarreal in La Liga and the Europa Conference League group stages this campaign, chipping in with three goals and two assists.
Nevertheless, the Senegal international has not featured in Spain's top flight since the turn of the year, his last league outing coming as a substitute versus Valencia on New Year's Eve.
© Reuters
In his absence, the Yellow Submarine have put together some of their best form all season, collecting seven points from a possible nine in their three La Liga fixtures during 2022-23.
Even though the player has three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, it appears that Villarreal are ready to cash in on his signature.
Romano says that a medical will take place once Jackson travels to England over the coming days, although there is no rush to beat any deadline before their next fixture.
Bournemouth do not return to action until they place Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on February 4, a consequence of their early FA Cup exit.
Darren Plant
