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Chelsea 'scouting Jude Bellingham's main rival for La Liga top scorer as Victor Osimhen alternative'

Chelsea 'scouting Bellingham's main rival for La Liga top scorer as Osimhen alternative'
© Reuters
Chelsea reportedly identify Girona forward Artem Dovbyk as an alternative forward target to Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

Chelsea have reportedly identified Girona striker Artem Dovbyk as an alternative option to Napoli forward Victor Osimhen.

The Blues are widely expected to strengthen their forward line this summer, having been left unconvinced by their current options.

Nicolas Jackson has struggled for consistency in his first season with the club, scoring 12 goals in 34 competitive appearances.

Armando Broja is currently on loan with Fulham and faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge, while Brazilian youngster Deivid Washington has only been used on two occasions this season.

Christopher Nkunku can also play as a central striker, but he has had to contend with injury issues throughout his first Premier League campaign.

Napoli's Victor Osimhen celebrates scoring their first goal on February 21, 2024© Reuters

The Blues are believed to view Napoli's Osimhen as their top forward target for the upcoming summer transfer window.

However, French champions Paris Saint-Germain are supposedly leading the race to sign the Nigeria international ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

With Chelsea facing a battle to sign Osimhen, GIVEMESPORT are reporting that the Blues are considering Dovbyk as an alternative target.

The report claims that Chelsea have added Dovbyk to their shortlist after sending scouts to watch him in action over the last 12 months.

Ukraine's Artem Dovbyk and Scotland's Aaron Hickey in action on September 27, 2022© Reuters

Dovbyk rivalling Bellingham in race for top scorer

The 25-year-old has established himself as one of La Liga's best strikers since joining Girona from Ukrainian side Dnipro last summer.

Dovbyk has racked up 16 goals in 28 league appearances, helping Girona mount a viable challenge for Champions League qualification.

The Ukraine international recently scored a brace in a 3-2 win over Real Betis to end a seven-game La Liga goal drought.

As a result, Dovbyk has now moved level with Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham and Osasuna's Ante Budimir in the race to win the Pichichi.

Dovbyk will have the chance to add to his tally when Girona return to La Liga action against Atletico Madrid on April 13.

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Written by
Ben Sully

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Napoli's Victor Osimhen celebrates scoring their first goal on February 21, 2024
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