The Chelsea squad is expected to undergo a transformation this summer with Xabi Alonso coming in as the new manager. They do not have a big budget to work with, having missed out on Champions League football and posted record losses not too long ago. So, it will be very interesting to see how the Blues navigate the situation.
Alonso would have only come if assurances had been made to him that he would be backed this summer. And it looks like one of the first things he wants is to strengthen up top.
A lot has been made about Chelsea’s defensive frailties. That being said, the club have just as many problems going forward as well. Over the past couple of months, they have drawn blanks more often than they have scored. That needs to change and Alonso needs to find a way to.
According to CaughtOffside, sources have said that Alonso wants an elite number 9 at Chelsea and their top target is Victor Osimhen.
Chelsea eyeing move for Victor Osimhen
Osimhen is someone who has been linked with Chelsea for years. Numerous times, while he was at Napoli, a move had seemed to be on the cards. In fact, John Obi Mikel is someone who has constantly pushed for his fellow Nigerian to end up at Stamford Bridge.
Yet, for one reason or another, Chelsea have never gone for it. None of European football’s other top clubs have either. As a result, Osimhen finds himself at Galatasaray. But he has continued to score goals.
This season, he has managed seven goals and three assists in 10 Champions League appearances, proving that he can find the back of the net at the highest level. There are not too many elite goalscorers out there, especially those who can be realistically signed. Osimhen is one of the few. If Chelsea want him, they should move quickly.
What does this mean for the future of Joao Pedro?
Joao Pedro has enjoyed an excellent debut campaign for Chelsea. He has scored 23 goals and provided nine assists. Those numbers cannot be overlooked or understated.
That being said, the Brazilian striker does have the habit of blowing hot and cold. Also, his record against top teams is not the best. This season, he has failed to score against any of Arsenal, Manchester City, Man United and Liverpool, when facing them in the Premier League.
The only two times when he did rise to the occasion and score against top teams, were against PSG in the Club World Cup final and against Napoli in an important away game in the Champions League.
Also, let’s not forget that he is being heavily linked with a move to Barcelona at the moment. So, there is no guarantee he will even be a Chelsea player next season.