Chelsea’s Transfer Priorities: Striker Takes Precedence Over Other Needs

With Chelsea struggling in multiple areas on the pitch, the club has ruled out signing a goalkeeper or defender and is instead focusing on a left-sided winger, a striker, and possibly a midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Original Source
The Athletic
Written by
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
30 Jan
8:26
Opinion

The1905.Club Summary

While all three positions have valid arguments for investment, the biggest concern remains in attack, as Chelsea desperately need more goals and support for Nicolas Jackson. A new winger would not address the team’s primary weakness, even though Mykhailo Mudryk faces a possible ban for a doping violation. Midfield reinforcements are also needed due to Romeo Lavia’s injury issues and Moises Caicedo’s growing fatigue, but Chelsea could recall Andrey Santos or Lesley Ugochukwu from their loans instead of making a new signing. This leaves the centre-forward role as the clear priority, but quality strikers are typically the most expensive to acquire—especially in January. Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has emerged as a strong option, particularly after his standout performance in Ipswich’s 2-0 win over Chelsea last month. Delap’s ability to hold up play, make runs in behind, and score goals makes him an ideal candidate to take the pressure off Jackson and add more firepower to the squad.

Key Points

  • Chelsea will not sign a new goalkeeper or defender, focusing instead on a winger, striker, and possibly a midfielder.
  • Mudryk could face a lengthy ban, but a new winger would not solve Chelsea’s biggest issue.
  • Chelsea need midfield reinforcements, but recalling Andrey Santos or Lesley Ugochukwu from loan is a smarter option than buying.
  • A new centre-forward is the top priority, as Chelsea lack firepower and cannot rely solely on Nicolas Jackson.
  • Ipswich’s Liam Delap is a strong target, with his pace, hold-up play, and finishing ability making him an ideal fit.
  • Strikers are expensive in January, but Chelsea must invest in goals to improve their form.

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Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
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Written by 
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
Co-founder of The1905Club. A life long Chelsea fan and season ticket holder for over twenty years. Now residing in Poland, this doesn't stop Tosh from watching every minute of every game.
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