Transfer Talk: Five forwards Chelsea could target after Broja injury blow

Attacking reinforcements were always likely to be on Chelsea’s January transfer window wish list — but Armando Broja’s season-ending injury means they are now a necessity.

After making an impressive start under new boss Graham Potter, the Blues suffered a five-game winless run in the Premier League prior to the World Cup break and find themselves languishing in eighth.

Finding the net has been a particular problem, with current striking options Broja, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Kai Havertz managing just five league goals between them so far this term.

With reported new signing Christopher Nkunku not arriving until next summer, we look at five forwards Chelsea could target as they prepare to resume their campaign against Bournemouth on December 27.

Joao Felix

Portugal star Joao Felix looks increasingly likely to depart Atletico Madrid next month.

The 23-year-old was out of favour under Diego Simeone before the World Cup but shined for the Selecao in Qatar, managing three goal contributions prior to their quarter-final elimination.

A number of Premier League clubs are said to view Felix as a good mid-season addition, including the West Londoners.

The playmaker is contracted to Atleti until 2026, so fellow interested parties including Arsenal, Aston Villa and Manchester United know he will not come cheap.

Given owner Todd Boehly’s happiness to spend hefty transfers sums since taking charge at Stamford Bridge, that may put the Blues at the front of the queue.

Rafael Leao

Fellow Portugal ace Rafael Leao may be more of a wide forward than an out-and-out striker, but his goal record speaks for itself.

The AC Milan talisman, 23, is one of Serie A’s most sought-after players after scoring 21 times in all competitions since the start of last season.

It seems a matter of if, rather than when, one of Europe’s elite snap him up and Chelsea are a club with a reported long-term interest having unsuccessfully moved for him earlier this year.

Manchester City are another potential suitor, while recent reports add rivals Manchester United to that list alongside big-hitters Real Madrid.

Victor Osimhen

Another prolific marksman in Europe who looks ready-made for the English top flight is Victor Osimhen.

Chelsea have a penchant for a big, strong No9 and the Nigerian striker certainly fits that billing.

Osimhen has spearheaded Napoli’s charge to the top of Serie A this term with 11 goal contributions in 11 league games.

With 38 goals in 76 games overall for the Partenopei, he certainly has the goalscoring credentials to light up Stamford Bridge.

However, this looks a deal that may have to wait until next summer at the earliest, with the 23-year-old recently revealing a January exit is not in his plans.

Jonathan David

Fresh from representing Canada at their first World Cup appearance since 1986, Jonathan David could well be a man in demand in January.

Les Rouges failed to pick up a point in Qatar but earned plenty of plaudits for their attacking approach, with Lille striker David proving a handful for many opposition defenders.

Following their group-stage exit, the forward admitted the Premier League would be his dream destination.

Asked about interest in him, David said: “The Premier League is the best league in the world and I think every player would want to play there some day.”

With nine goals and three assists in Ligue 1 this term aged just 22, he could well prove a shrewd long-term acquisition.

Youssoufa Moukoko

Though much younger than the other names on this list, Chelsea are reportedly steaming ahead in the race to sign 18-year-old Borussia Dortmund starlet Youssoufa Moukoko.

The teen has six goals and three assists for BVB this season and even made Germany’s World Cup squad, handed a debut appearance in the competition in the shock 2-1 loss to Japan.

Reports indicate the Blues are in advanced talks to land Moukoko, who has been tipped as the next elite product to emerge from Dortmund’s talent factory.

While the Blues can sign him for free next summer, it is indicated they could look to wrap up the deal in January and have him join Potter’s squad right away.