Chelsea have identified RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as two of their main targets to strengthen their forward line, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Writing in his column for GiveMeSport (via their website), Romano confirmed that the Blues are keeping tabs on the pair.

The future of Christopher Nkunku may decide whether Enzo Maresca’s side opt to bring in a new striker during the January transfer window.

Bayern Munich are hoping to snap up the France international but they have failed to match his €70m (£59m) asking price so far.

A deal for Sesko in January is unlikely

Arsenal have also been heavily linked with the Slovenian international in recent days, with some reports even suggesting that the Gunners have held formal negotiations over a transfer.

However, Sesko’s agent has claimed that no discussions with Mikel Arteta’s side have taken place and he expects his client to remain in Germany until the end of the season:

“I don’t think Leipzig would be satisfied with any compensation at the moment, Leipzig does not want to sell Benjamin Sesko because they really value him immensely.”

With that being the case, Chelsea may have to delay a potential bid for Sesko or look at other options.

Chelsea will have competition for Delap

The Blues have reportedly been keeping a close eye on the Ipswich forward’s progress this season. No doubt, Joe Shields (who was influential in signing Cole Palmer), will have been in the ear of the club’s sporting directors, having seen what Delap can do during his time at Manchester City.

However, the Cityzens do have a buyback clause on the 21-year-old which is said to be worth £30m, so the Premier League champions could get involved if Chelsea make an approach this month.

Read our exclusive interview with Emmanuel Petit as he makes bold claim about Chelsea signing a new striker