Bournemouth V Chelsea: Pictures
Chelsea have reportedly put Napoli star Victor Osimhen on their three-man striker shortlist as the higher powers at the club prepare for another spending spree. The Blues acquired the services of Nicolas Jackson from Villarreal over the summer but the Senegalese forward has struggled to hit the ground running in the Premier League.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side have underwhelmed so far this season, with the squad still lacking togetherness and looking unsettled tactically. The ex-Tottenham manager will be keen to resolve issues in the team sooner rather than later, though he could fall back on the January transfer window if the problems continue.
Chelsea are already reportedly looking at ways to bolster their forward ranks when the next opportunity arrives, in a suggestion that Jackson has failed to show that he is the long-term No 9 at Stamford Bridge. The 22-year-old has scored one goal in five league appearances so far this season, though he has been wasteful in front of goal and will be disappointed not to have added more to his account.
As a result, according to GiveMeSport, Chelsea have shortlisted Osimhen, Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins as three potential options for further down the line and are monitoring each of their respective situations in case an opportunity arises in January.
Don’t miss… Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino shares his Zinedine Zidane plan for Blues[LATEST]
Osimhen has picked up where he left off in the Serie A this season, scoring three goals in four appearances despite his side only winning two of those matches. The Nigeria international is still incredibly highly valued by the Serie A outfit and Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis previously suggested – when PSG were interested – that a bid in the region of £172million (€200m) would be required to test their resolve.
Similarly, Aston Villa are in no rush to offload Watkins, despite his goalless start to the 2023/24 season. The England international is a key part of Unai Emery’s system and his ability to play on the wing is viewed as a very valuable asset by the club.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Chelsea are therefore said to only be likely to pursue Watkins if Villa are unable to tie him down to a new long-term contract at the club. Brentford star Toney is the most attainable player on the three-man shortlist on the list and he will return from his ban before the January transfer window closes.
The Bees are expecting the 27-year-old to see out the season with them before moving on, but a concrete approach could see that stance altered if a significant bid is tabled – potentially for more than £80m.
Source: Read Full Article