Stamford Bridge bound? Chelsea chase young £55m striker, not Osimhen

Chelsea's summer transfer plans have taken a new direction, with the club now prioritising the signing of RB Leipzig's rising star, Benjamin Sesko, over their previous interest in Napoli's Victor Osimhen according to The Athletic.

The decision to focus on Sesko, who has a release clause of £55 million, comes after careful consideration of financial aspects and the player's suitability for new manager Enzo Maresca's system.

Chelsea's reluctance to meet Osimhen's hefty price tag has led them to explore alternative options, with the 21-year-old Slovenian striker's impressive form and potential making him an attractive prospect.

Sesko's stock has risen significantly following a stellar finish to the Bundesliga season, where he scored or assisted in 13 of his final 16 appearances. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United, also expressing interest in the young forward.

Despite the competition, Chelsea are growing increasingly confident in their ability to secure Sesko's signature. Journalist Simon Phillips has reported that the Blues view Sesko as their preferred choice due to the lower cost and agent fees involved compared to pursuing Osimhen.

At 6ft 5in, Sesko possesses the physical attributes to thrive in the Premier League. His height, combined with his technical ability and eye for goal, make him an enticing prospect for Chelsea as they seek to bolster their attacking options.

The potential arrival of Sesko could provide Chelsea with a long-term solution to their striking woes. With Nicolas Jackson currently the only recognised No.9 at Stamford Bridge, the addition of a talented young forward like Sesko could help the club build a formidable attacking partnership for the future.

As Enzo Maresca settles into his new role as Chelsea's manager, the club is expected to be active in the transfer market, targeting four to five signings. In addition to a striker, the Blues are also in the market for a centre-back, with Tosin Adarabioyo reportedly choosing Chelsea over Newcastle United. A sweeper-keeper and a new left-back are also on Maresca's wishlist, with FC Porto's Diogo Costa being considered for the goalkeeping position.

While some fans may prefer a more experienced, proven striker, Chelsea's current transfer strategy appears to favour younger talents with room for growth. The potential partnership between Sesko and Jackson could prove to be an exciting prospect for the club's future, as both players have the potential to develop into top-class forwards.

Chelsea's pursuit of Benjamin Sesko will be closely monitored. The club's confidence in securing the young striker's signature could mark the beginning of a new era under Enzo Maresca's leadership, as the Blues look to rebuild and challenge for top honours once again.