There is a “very good chance” that Chelsea will bring in a “top striker” during the January transfer window, according to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein.

The trusted journalist says a decision may still depend on how the club’s current crop of forwards perform but all the indications suggest that a new No.9 will be signed in the New Year:

“There is a very good chance of this happening. They have Jackson and Broja, so let’s see how they both do. But it would not surprise me if Chelsea recruit another top striker.”

While Jackson has looked impressive in patches since his arrival from Villarreal in the summer, his return of 3 goals in 9 appearances is rather underwhelming.

Broja, meanwhile, is currently suffering with some fitness issues. The Albanian international has only just returned from a serious knee injury but he is a doubt for the game against Arsenal next weekend.

Chelsea’s goal record this season is a cause for concern

One of the key reasons why the Blues seem to be so keen to go back into the market for a forward is because they have only scored 11 times in 8 league games and 4 of those came against Burnley last time out.

If you look at the underlying numbers too, Mauricio Pochettino’s side are underperforming in attack. Their xG is 15.79, which is nearly 5 above their actual goals scored.

Who would Chelsea try to sign?

There are two outstanding candidates that the Blues may look to pursue but both would set the club back a sizeable amount of money.

Brentford’s Ivan Toney is expected to be available in January, but his asking price is said to be anything between £50m and £80m. Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is the main alternative but the Nigerian could cost even more, with his valuation set at approximately £120m.

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