Over the years, Chelsea fans have witnessed some exceptional strikers wear the club’s famous blue shirt, with many playing key roles in the team’s domestic triumphs, especially in the Premier League.
Among the legendary figures, Didier Drogba is widely regarded as the most iconic.
The Ivorian striker scored more than 100 goals during two spells with the club and famously etched his name into Chelsea folklore by scoring the equalising goal in the dramatic 2012 UEFA Champions League final, a match that Chelsea went on to win.
Drogba’s transfer from Marseille in 2004 remains one of the most successful in Chelsea’s history.
His performances, especially on the biggest occasions, helped define an era for the club and solidified his legendary status.
In contrast, the present-day Chelsea side continues to face challenges in the striker department.
Under new head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues have struggled to find a reliable goal scorer.
Nicolas Jackson, the current leading striker, has shown inconsistency, with his performance in the recent defeat to Newcastle exposing the team’s ongoing issues in the forward position.
These issues have prompted Chelsea’s management to begin searching for a new centre-forward ahead of the summer transfer window, with strengthening the striker role identified as a top priority.
In recent weeks, Chelsea have been linked with various attacking prospects as Maresca looks to strengthen his squad.
Players like Liam Delap and Jonathan David—whose contract with Lille ends this June—have been on the radar.
However, a new name has emerged in the transfer conversation: Benjamin Sesko, currently playing for RB Leipzig.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have already begun talks with the representatives of the 21-year-old Slovenian forward.
Sesko has had an impressive 2024/25 campaign, scoring 21 goals in all competitions.
His age, potential, and consistent performances have reportedly convinced Chelsea officials that he could be the ideal upgrade to the currently suspended Jackson.
While Victor Osimhen of Napoli has also been considered, his situation presents complications.
Although the Nigerian striker has enjoyed a strong loan spell at Galatasaray—scoring 24 goals in 28 league matches—his transfer fee is expected to be around £60 million.
With other Premier League clubs also interested, the competition and financial demands could deter Chelsea.
In contrast, Sesko may represent a more affordable and long-term solution.
Despite having slightly fewer total contributions than Osimhen, Sesko’s shooting accuracy and superior passing ability make him more effective in overall build-up play.
His strength in aerial duels and one-on-one scenarios also stands out—traits Chelsea have sorely missed, particularly when it comes to capitalising on crosses.
With a playing style compared to Erling Haaland by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Sesko offers a balanced and dynamic attacking profile.
His combination of physical presence and goal-scoring instinct could give Chelsea the type of focal point they have lacked since Drogba’s prime years.
In summary, while both Osimhen and Sesko could bolster Chelsea’s front line, the latter appears to be the smarter investment.
His age, attributes, and cost-effectiveness make him a prime candidate to lead Maresca’s Chelsea rebuild and potentially bring the club back to the summit of English football.
