Senegal international Jackson becomes the second signing of the summer for the Blues, after the £52m capture of Christopher Nkunku also reinforced their attack.
In keeping with Chelsea’s strategy of long-term deals for their young signings, the 22-year-old has put pen to paper on an eight-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
“I feel I’m gonna do amazing things here,” he said in a short social media clip.
Jackson almost signed for Bournemouth in January before hitting nine goals in his last eight LaLiga games of Villarreal’s season.
Chelsea have agreed to pay slightly above the striker’s £30m release clause in order to pay Jackson’s fee in multiple instalments.
Co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: “We are excited to welcome Nicolas to Chelsea. 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.”
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He is expected to compete for a role in Pochettino’s frontline next season along with Nkunku, Armando Broja and David Datro Fofana. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to follow Kai Havertz out the exit door while Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is a rumoured target.
Earlier on Friday, Chelsea also confirmed the £17m departure of Ruben Loftus-Cheek to take their player sales to the £140m mark.
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