The Blues are gearing up for a pivotal transfer window, with Enzo Maresca potentially needing to bolster his squad with a new centre-forward.
The previous season saw Mauricio Pochettino wrap up the campaign with only one natural striker, Nicolas Jackson, which simply won’t suffice for Chelsea’s ambitions to secure a Champions League spot next term.
To alleviate the pressure on Jackson, Chelsea might turn to one of their Premier League adversaries for reinforcements. This strategy aligns with their recent trend of recruiting talent from within the league, exemplified by last summer’s acquisitions of Moises Caicedo and Robert Sanchez from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Their sights are now set on Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran, a target from the January transfer window. Reports suggest that Duran has instructed his agent to facilitate the move, indicating a summer transfer is highly plausible.
However, Chelsea’s primary focus remains on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko for the centre-forward role. According to journalist Simon Phillips, the Blues have already communicated their readiness to trigger Sesko’s release clause.
But with Arsenal and Manchester United also vying for the 21-year-old’s signature, there’s no certainty Chelsea will secure him.
If Sesko opts for a rival club, Chelsea could pivot back to Duran, whom Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has lauded as a “special player.”
Last season, Duran demonstrated his potential with 23 Premier League appearances and five goals, including impressive performances against Liverpool and Manchester City. His prowess on the field makes him a promising candidate to strengthen Chelsea’s attacking options.
