Blues Eye New Number Nine
Chelsea have reportedly discussed a move for Club Brugge forward Nicolo Tresoldi, according to journalist Simon Phillips. Xabi Alonso currently has João Pedro and Danny Welbeck at centre-forward, but the Brazilian has been sidelined recently, while Welbeck has struggled for regular starts since arriving from Brighton last summer.
With Welbeck nearing the later stages of his career, the west Londoners appear to be exploring long-term alternatives. Phillips claims the club have stepped up their interest after tracking the 22-year-old closely.
Tresoldi’s Record at Club Brugge
Valued at roughly £29m by Transfermarkt, Tresoldi is contracted until 2029, so Brugge are well placed to demand a substantial fee. Last season he netted 23 goals and provided seven assists in 57 outings, helping the club lift the Belgian Pro League and Super Cup.
This campaign has been even better. He has scored 14 goals and set up one more in 16 appearances, a return of 15 goal contributions. At 6ft 1in, the right-footed forward is clinical in front of goal, links play well and works hard off the ball.
Opinion: A Sensible Long-Term Option
In my view, Tresoldi would be a shrewd piece of business. His age, output and potential fit the profile of a striker who could develop under Alonso, and Chelsea would not be buying a finished article at an inflated price. The big question is whether they move in January or wait until the summer.
Meanwhile, Chelsea follow their 2-0 Premier League win over Manchester United with a trip to bottom side Sunderland this weekend, before the November international break.