Chelsea could be very busy when the summer transfer window opens. One big problem still worries fans and coaches. The club does not have a strong and trusted number nine. This issue has become clearer during the season. While some players have shown promise, others have struggled. The situation around Liam Delap at Chelsea has raised questions, and now the club is looking at a new striker who could arrive on a free transfer.
😳 “The attack in general but the left wing especially really really concerns me”
“£90m was spent on two left wingers who you can’t rely on even one of them perform to consistently”
“Palmer is cooked injury wise, Delap has 2 goals in 21 games and doesn’t look like he suits… pic.twitter.com/F33N4rDhgF
— Chelsea Unfiltered Podcast (@CFCUnfiltered) February 5, 2026
Liam Delap is present, but Chelsea is still looking for a true number nine.
Since Liam Rosenior became Chelsea’s manager, the team has looked more organised. There has been better movement and more energy in attack. Joao Pedro has played very well. He has scored goals, made chances, and helped the team play as a unit. Fans have enjoyed watching him.
But things have been harder for Liam Delap at Chelsea. Delap joined the club for a big fee from Ipswich. Many people expected him to score goals right away that has not happened he has struggled to find form and confidence. His movement has been limited, and chances have been missed.
Rosenior was even asked by reporters if Delap had lost belief in himself. That shows how much attention his form has received. While Delap works hard, Chelsea know they may need more experience up front. This is why the club is now looking at other striker options for the summer.
Chelsea Links to New Summer Signing Could Benefit Liam Delap
Chelsea’s history tells an important story. The club has often relied on big, powerful strikers. Fans remember players like Didier Drogba and Diego Costa. These players were strong, brave, and dangerous in the box. Right now, Chelsea do not have that type of striker.
Because of this, Chelsea have asked about Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. According to reports from Italy, he could leave Juventus on a free transfer at the end of the season. His contract is close to ending, and a new deal looks unlikely.
Vlahovic earns around £200,000 a week this is a lot of money for Italian clubs. AC Milan are interested but may not be able to afford his wages. A move to England makes more sense. Premier League clubs can handle bigger salaries.
Chelsea are not alone Newcastle have also made enquiries. Both clubs believe Vlahovic could bring goals, strength, and experience. For Chelsea, this could also reduce pressure on Liam Delap, Chelsea, who is still young and learning.
🚨During the meeting with Vlahovic: the player's agent demanded a signing bonus of 20 million euros on top of a gross salary of 14 million. A demand deemed absurd by Deco, who ruled out the option for now.@ActualiteBarca pic.twitter.com/knPipARJKG
— Wal (@walchavito) February 5, 2026
Fans React as Big Name Is Linked
Chelsea fans have mixed feelings about the news. Some fans are excited. They believe a free transfer for a top striker is smart business. Others are more careful. They worry about wages and injuries.
Many fans feel Delap still needs time they say young players often struggle at big clubs. Some believe competition could help him grow. Newcastle fans are also excited they see this as a sign their club wants to compete at the highest level.
Online discussions have been busy. Supporters from both clubs are sharing opinions, hopes, and worries.
What This Means for Chelsea’s Future
If Chelsea sign Vlahovic, the team could change quickly. A strong striker could help the midfield and wingers play better. Goals could come more easily. It would also give Rosenior more choices.
For Delap, the future is unclear. He could stay and learn. He could fight for his place. Or he could move to get more game time. The summer window will be important for his career.
Author’s Opinion
Chelsea know they must fix their striker problem. The link between Liam Delap, Chelsea and a new signing shows the club is planning ahead. With a free transfer possible, this summer could bring a big decision and a new leader in attack.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
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