Chelsea have allegedly identified three forwards who they may look to try to sign at some point during 2025.
On Wednesday night, the streak of Enzo Maresca's side scoring in 13 successive matches came to an end as they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Newcastle United in the EFL Cup fourth round.
The Italian had opted to make 11 changes to his starting lineup, the likes of Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku failing to take their opportunities in rare starts versus top-flight opposition.
However, as many as 19 goals have been scored in nine Premier League fixtures - the second-best return in the division behind Manchester City.
Nicolas Jackson has progressed into one of the best strikers in England's top flight, contributing six goals and three assists from his 695 minutes of action.
Nevertheless, it appears that the Blues recruitment team are still in the market for further competition for the Senegal international.
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Which forwards are targets for Chelsea?
According to TBRfootball, three different strikers have been identified as potential additions, either in January or next summer.
Chelsea are allegedly continuing to monitor the situation involving Victor Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray having failed to secure a permanent switch away from Napoli.
In seven appearances in Super Lig and the Europa League, the Nigeria international has contributed four goals and three assists, with Galatasaray hopeful of retaining his services for the remainder of the campaign.
That said, as per the terms of his loan contract, Osimhen can leave for a bigger European club should a suitable offer be made at the midway point of the season.
If a permanent transfer was to materialise in January, Chelsea or another club of a similar stature may be forced into paying a €90m (£75.4m) release clause.
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Which duo remain on radar for summer transfer?
RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle forward Alexander Isak are said to be the other two strikers who have admirers in Chelsea.
Sesko signed a new long-term contract with Leipzig earlier this year and has since chipped in with five goals and two assists in the Bundesliga and Champions League during 2024-25.
Meanwhile, Isak still has over three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract with Newcastle, albeit at a time when the Magpies may have to consider any offers of at least £70m if they are to create more leeway with the relevant financial regulations.
Manager Eddie Howe recently hinted that the North East outfit cannot afford to offer a contract that is too lucrative if they are to hinder themselves in the transfer market.
Darren Plant
