Journalist Sami Mokbel has gone into a bit more detail on Chelsea links to several strikers as they look for a number nine this summer.
Mokbel, who is a journalist for the Daily Mail, spoke at length about the multitude of forwards Chelsea have been linked with this summer – including Harry Kane and Dusan Vlahovic – as they aim to solve their goalscoring issue.
Kai Havertz is the Blues’ top scorer this season with nine goals in all competitions, which shows that their lack of a high-quality, out-and-out finisher has cost them dearly this season.
“It [the number nine spot] is the hardest position to fill because there is such a lack of prolific goalscorers available right now,” said Mokbel.
“If you look just at the Premier League, Haaland’s had an incredible season – there’s no chance Chelsea get him – and likewise Mo Salah, it’ll be impossible for them to prise him away from Liverpool.
Mokbel then admitted that Tottenham’s Kane is a name that could be obtainable for the Blues, their chances of getting him increasing slightly with the expected managerial appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, but Daniel Levy could stand in their way of a deal, while Serie A men Vlahovic and Victor Osimhen will likely command big transfer fees.
“The one that could be available is Kane, but the likelihood of Daniel Levy selling to Chelsea, particularly their best player, is virtually not-existent.
“Osimhen of Napoli will be courted by a number of clubs and I think Vlahovic of Juventus is another interesting name to throw into the mix. He was big on Arsenal’s radar and could become available on the market. Those players will cost a premium but Chelsea do have the money. However, they will need to cut their squad size down first because it is so bloated.”
Plenty for the Chelsea hierarchy and Pochettino – if he is appointed – to think about this summer, but what a relief it will be for the club if they can finally settle on a number nine to get them some much-needed goals.