Chelsea have reportedly brought back one of their strikers from a season-long loan as they continue their pursuit of a new centre-forward before the January transfer window shuts. With the deadline fast approaching on Monday, the Blues have been linked with several attacking options but have yet to finalize any deals.
Among the players Chelsea have been monitoring are Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap and Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel. However, with negotiations still ongoing, the club may be considering an internal solution to bolster their attacking department.
One such possibility is the reintegration of David Datro Fofana into the squad. The Ivorian forward, who was initially sent out on loan for the entire season, has officially returned to Chelsea, raising questions about whether he will be used as an attacking option for the remainder of the campaign. While it is not yet confirmed whether Chelsea plan to utilize him, his return could provide additional depth in the striker position as the club weighs its options.
Fofana’s loan spell this season has been eventful, with mixed results. He initially had a promising period at Burnley, showing glimpses of his potential. However, he made an unexpected switch to Turkish side Göztepe, where he encountered setbacks. A recent injury, followed by surgery, prompted Chelsea to recall him earlier than planned. The club is now assessing the extent of his injury before deciding on the next course of action.
According to Simon Johnson of The Athletic, Chelsea’s decision to bring back Fofana is partly influenced by the need to evaluate his fitness after his surgery. Another key factor in his return is that it frees up an international loan spot, which could allow Chelsea to register another incoming player before the transfer window closes. By recalling Fofana, the club has effectively created an opportunity to make further squad adjustments should they choose to bring in reinforcements in attack.
As the transfer deadline looms, Chelsea’s strategy remains unclear. The club continues to explore potential signings, with reports suggesting they are in discussions with various clubs regarding striker options. However, if no suitable deal materializes, they may be forced to rely on their existing squad, including players like Fofana.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also active in the transfer market. Prominent Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Red Devils have reached out to a major Bundesliga club in an attempt to secure a “record-breaking” striker. This move is seen as an alternative to their current options, Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund, as United look to strengthen their attacking force.
Additionally, Chelsea are reportedly in talks to re-sign a highly-rated midfielder before the transfer window closes. Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca has hinted at the club’s interest in bringing back a player who was previously overlooked. Maresca admitted that the decision to disregard him earlier was a mistake, but Chelsea are now making an effort to rectify that by securing his return.
With just days remaining before the transfer window shuts, Chelsea’s moves in the market will be closely watched. Whether they manage to sign a new striker or choose to reintegrate Fofana into the squad remains to be seen, but the club’s actions in the coming days will be crucial in shaping their attacking options for the rest of the season.
