Liam Delap's injury has left Chelsea in a difficult position. Nicolas Jackson's loan move to Bayern Munich only made things worse. Marc Guiu was brought back from Sunderland, but it has become pretty clear that Enzo Maresca does not fully trust him to lead the line yet. In fact, Tyrique George, a natural winger, has been getting minutes up front ahead of him. That should tell you everything you need to know.
For the most part, the responsibility has fallen on the shoulders of Joao Pedro to lead the line. The Brazilian striker feels like more of a combination between a number 9 and 10, rather than someone who is an out-and-out striker.
On top of that, it is believed that he has not been fully fit for a while now. But Pedro has had to start consistently despite that, due to Chelsea's lack of options at striker.
Delap is expected to return sometime in December, which is expected to be a major boost for the Blues. On the other hand, it looks like they might be on the search for another striker as well.
Chelsea's interest in signing 89-goal Serie A striker in January confirmed
The player in question is none other than Dusan Vlahovic. He has been linked with Chelsea numerous times in the past, and now, it looks like a move to Stamford Bridge could finally be on the cards. As reported by TuttoJuve, Ciro Venerato, Raisport transfer expert, gave his take on the Serbian striker's situation during "La Nuova DS":
"Between Juve and Vlahovic, we've reached the final credits, despite the usual denials.
"He'll leave in January no matter what happens. The management doesn't intend to lose him on a free transfer and would also like to save the €6 million net, €12 million gross with taxes, of the last few months. Rumors of Chelsea and United's interest are confirmed, but AC Milan's latest arrival can't be ruled out."
At one point in time, Vlahovic was considered an Erling Haaland-level talent. But things have not gone exactly to plan since his move to Juventus.
To be honest, he has not been bad at all for Juventus, scoring 62 goals in 151 appearances. But it is safe to say that expectations have not been met, considering how well he was playing for Fiorentina, right before his move to Turin.
Could a move to Chelsea revive Vlahovic's career? It is very possible. Now, it remains to be seen if a move is made or this turns out to be just another transfer rumour involving the Blues.