Strikers have captured the hearts of supporters over the years at Chelsea, but none more so than Didier Drogba given his time as a player at Stamford Bridge.
The Ivorian joined the Blues under José Mourinho back in the summer of 2004, with not many knowing what to expect after he arrived from Ligue 1 outfit Marseille.
However, he would provide the goods on a consistent basis, notching a total of 147 goals over two separate spells - spanning a total of nine years in West London.
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Such a record has cemented him in the club’s history forever, currently sitting as the Blues’ second-highest Premier League goalscorer behind the iconic Frank Lampard.
Fast-forward to the present day, boss Enzo Maresca has the opportunity to land another version of the Ivorian with a move for a star currently plying his trade in France's top division.
Chelsea plot summer move for new talisman
According to French journalist Mohamed Toubache, Chelsea are keen on a summer move to land Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha to improve the current forward department.
The 22-year-old, who’s currently plying his trade for the Blues’ sister club, has notched a total of 12 goals in all competitions this campaign, in what has been a breakout year as a professional.
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He’s in his second year at the French outfit after joining from Sturm Graz in the summer of 2023 but has enjoyed a rapid development over the last couple of months.
Whilst no fee has been touted for his signature over the off-season, it’s likely the Dutchman could demand a decent fee given his form in Ligue 1 throughout 2024/25.
Emegha may not be many supporters’ first choice to improve the current situation, but when comparing him to the other options on the table, he’s managed to match or better them in numerous key areas.
How Emegha compares to other strikers linked with Chelsea
Although the summer transfer window is yet to open, Chelsea have wasted no time in targeting a new talisman to aid Maresca’s first-team squad next season.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matheus Cunha reacts
Matheus Cunha is just one player linked with a move to West London, with the Brazilian stating his desire to leave Wolves this summer to reach the next level in his career.
The 25-year-old also has admirers from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, with a real battle facing the sides upon the opening of the window.
Dušan Vlahović is another player on the club’s shortlist, once again appearing on the radar after previously being of interest back in the January transfer window.
However, despite the previous names mentioned, Emegha, who’s previously been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has managed to produce stats way beyond the levels of the pair.
How Emegha compares to Cunha & Vlahovic in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Goals & assists
Goals & assists per 90
Shot-on-target accuracy
Pass accuracy
Aerials won
Stats via FBref
The Dutchman may have registered slightly fewer combined goals and assists than Cunha, but has matched him for contributions per 90 - highlighting the threat he poses in attacking areas.
He’s managed to notch a higher shot-on-target accuracy than the pair, showcasing his accuracy when the ball falls his way, offering Maresca the dangerman he’s been hunting for.
Emegha has also completed more of the passes he’s attempted this campaign, whilst also coming out on top in more aerial battles, demonstrating his all-round ability - something which they’ve desperately been craving.
His 6”4 frame coupled with his pace and ability to run the channels makes him a similar build to Drogba, potentially being the club’s next version of the fan-favourite.
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Should the hierarchy complete a deal for his services this summer, it would undoubtedly be an exciting addition, with the Blues getting themselves a future icon should he get anywhere close to the Ivorian’s level after his own move from Ligue 1 over 20 years ago.
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