Chelsea’s search to find a new prolific striker has now lead them to look at one player enjoying a fantastic individual season in one of Europe’s top five leagues.
The conversation regarding the Blues bringing in a new star attacker has been ongoing for years at Stamford Bridge.
Nicolas Jackson’s done a decent job during his debut Chelsea season, scoring 12 goals across all competitions so far. Meanwhile, Christopher Nkunku has been injured for most of the campaign.
According to The Sun last month, Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly is determined for the club to sign a free-scoring centre-forward in the upcoming summer transfer window.
So, who will be leading the line for Mauricio Pochettino’s side next season?
Chelsea linked with 23-goal striker
RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda, who’s scored 23 goals in 38 appearances this season, is apparently in Chelsea’s sights.
Journalist Simon Phillips has reported via his Substack today that Chelsea are keen on Lois Openda as a potential transfer target.
It is explained that the 24-year-old frontman is attracting real interest from the Blues, with scouts frequently watching him in action this year.
In addition, Phillips notes the Leipzig man has a release clause worth around £70m that comes into play next year. If clubs want to sign the Bundesliga ace this summer, it’s likely they will need to pay over the release clause.
Phillips said via Substack: “We understand Chelsea are keen on RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda. I am told that the 24-year-old Belgium international is attracting real interest from Chelsea, with our scouts having taken a close look at him on many occasions so far this season…”
Lois Openda strengths
Openda’s been on fire in Germany this campaign for Leipzig, so we’re not mad about him emerging on Chelsea’s radar.
The mobile striker has 19 league goals in the Bundesliga so far, plus he netted four times in the Champions League.
There’s no doubt one of his greatest strength is his lightning speed. Speaking via Ligue 1 back in 2022, Philippe Clement described Opennda as a “super fast” player with a combative nature.
On top of that, Openda is a great finisher that is accumulating an eye-catching CV of scoring regular goals wherever he goes. Is the English Premier League next on his list?