Chelsea have reportedly identified an experienced Premier League forward as a potential summer transfer target.
Despite a highly-productive end to the season under Mauricio Pochettino where they scored at least twice in 12 of their last 13 games, Chelsea are in the market for a new frontman.
Although Nicolas Jackson contributed an impressive 17 goals and six assists in all competitions, the Senegal international lacks competition for the number-nine role.
Christopher Nkunku is a current alternative, but the former RB Leipzig star endured an injury-hit campaign and may be better used in a deeper role.
As a result, Chelsea have been assessing their options, with Victor Osimhen initially viewed as their first-choice option until it was deemed that the Napoli frontman was too expensive.
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Calvert-Lewin added to Chelsea shortlist
According to the Daily Mail, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is viewed by Chelsea as a potential target.
The England international has just played his part in keeping Everton in the Premier League, yet being available for 32 of the club's 38 matches was arguably the most notable statistic.
A total of seven goals and two assists came from 2,189 minutes of football, ending the season in magnificent form with a strike or assist coming in five of his closing seven outings.
Preceding that, though, the 27-year-old had failed to across a five-month period, it yet to be seen whether that will count against him when it comes to a potential switch to Stamford Bridge.
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Why may Chelsea target Calvert-Lewin?
Despite his injury issues, Calvert-Lewin is a proven Premier League striker with 54 goals and 14 assists to his name from 213 appearances.
While his goal return is not exactly prolific, he has emerged as a leader at Goodison Park, something Chelsea are lacking, so his age will be taken into consideration.
Perhaps most enticing for Chelsea is Calvert-Lewin having just one year left on his contract and Everton needing to sell in order to boost their position with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability regulations.
The report adds that RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko is an alternative for Chelsea, but the expectation is the 21-year-old will cost considerably more than Calvert-Lewin would.
With Chelsea also needing to meet certain financial rules, negotiating a deal for Calvert-Lewin may prove more attractive.
Darren Plant
