Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is facing a time-sensitive decision, with a seven-day window to determine whether to bring in a new striker to Stamford Bridge.
The unfortunate injury setback to Christopher Nkunku, shortly after his debut for the Blues, compounds the challenge, particularly with Nicolas Jackson expected to be unavailable for most of January due to his involvement in AFCON with Senegal.
Pochettino has provided conflicting updates on Nkunku’s status, initially suggesting a swift return before hinting at a more prolonged absence following the victory over Fulham. Despite this uncertainty,
Chelsea is set on recruiting a striker in 2024, with Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen emerging as preferred options. Another prospect catching their eye is Evan Ferguson from Brighton, although his rumored £120 million price tag post a new deal with the south coast club raises eyebrows.
As Chelsea looks to reinforce their attacking options, there’s a corresponding move to trim their striking squad. Football.london reveals that Evan Ferguson may not be a feasible target for the Blues, quoting Pochettino’s reluctance to discuss players from different clubs and the challenges posed by Brighton’s steadfast refusal to part with key assets.
The article suggests that Chelsea’s reluctance to engage in a bidding war for Ferguson, especially with comparable options like Osimhen and Toney available at similar prices, makes a January or summer move for the 19-year-old unlikely.
In a different transfer move, Chelsea has approved a loan for David Datro Fofana to Burnley. Fofana, Chelsea’s first signing of last season’s winter window from Molde, has seen some senior minutes but is now set for a loan move.
Football.london argues that while Chelsea lacks depth in attack, allowing Fofana to go out on loan aligns with the club’s strategy.
The focus is on providing young players like Fofana with regular playing time, and securing Premier League experience at Burnley is seen as a crucial step in hisdevelopment.
