Chelsea’s search for a new striker may have been dealt a blow after one of their reported targets suffered an ACL injury whilst away with his country.
The Blues added Joao Pedro and Liam Delap to their ranks last summer, with the Brazilian enjoying a fine season at Stamford Bridge.
There have however been internal doubts regarding Delap. He currently sits on just one Premier League goal so far this season.
QUARTER-FINAL 1: Liam Rosenior vs Frank Lampard
Chelsea target Joaquin Panichelli suffers ACL injury
This has been particularly damning when looking at fellow BlueCo club Strasbourg, and the form of Joaquin Panichelli. He sits on 20 goals already so far this season.
Unfortunately for the Argentine, he has now been ruled out for a prolonged period of time. Journalist Martin Arevalo has reported that he is now out of the World Cup.
FBL-FRA-CUP-STRASBOURG-REIMS
Photo by Frederick FLORIN / AFP via Getty Images
“Panichelli out of the cup. Unfortunately, Panichelli suffered a serious injury and will miss the World Cup.”
Fabrizio Romano later clarified the severity of the situation, stating: Joaquin Panichelli, expected to miss the World Cup with an ACL injury. Panichelli suffered similar injury already years ago and now he’s set to be out of World Cup with Argentina.”
With Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez in the squad, a starting position was always going to be difficult to achieve, however Panichelli looked a certainty to travel to North America this summer.
How many points will we pick up here?
And will it be enough to save Liam Rosenior’s job?
Chelsea big fans of Panichelli
Chelsea have naturally been linked with the Strasbourg star due to the relationship between the two clubs. Liam Rosenior will be more than aware of his qualities.
It was reported back in December that Enzo Maresca was a huge fan of Panichelli, although the club’s transfer business already completed suggested a deal was unlikely this summer.
The Blues have already secured the services of current Strasbourg teammate Emanuel Emegha, who is set to join at the end of the season.
The Dutchman has also been plagued by injuries lately, not featuring since November in his final campaign before a Stamford Bridge switch.
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