Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has demonstrated a willingness to give struggling players a second chance at Stamford Bridge, and this philosophy could prove crucial in the upcoming transfer window. With the club aiming to maintain three top-tier strikers for the season, Rosenior might find an internal solution if current squad member Liam Delap departs.
Delap's Uncertain Future at Chelsea
Rosenior currently has Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu as his striking options. However, Delap's form has been a concern since his £30 million move from Ipswich Town last summer. The 23-year-old has scored only three goals in 31 appearances, leading to speculation about his future.
Recent reports from TEAMtalk indicate that Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Everton are monitoring Delap's situation, with Chelsea potentially open to selling him if his performances do not improve before the season ends. While Rosenior is not eager to lose Delap, the club would require a replacement should a sale occur.
Nicolas Jackson: A Ready-Made Replacement
Finding a proven Premier League striker in the transfer market is notoriously challenging, but Chelsea already possess a player with significant top-flight experience: Nicolas Jackson. The 24-year-old Senegalese striker, who joined Chelsea for £32 million from Villarreal, has scored 24 Premier League goals in his career.
Jackson is currently on loan at Bayern Munich, with the German club having an obligation to sign him permanently only if he starts 40 games across all competitions. With just 15 starts so far, it is likely he will return to Chelsea this summer. Reports from CFBayern suggest Jackson has 'no future' at Bayern Munich, which could align perfectly with Chelsea's needs.
Rosenior's Open-Door Policy
Rosenior has shown a propensity for reassessing players who were previously marginalized at Chelsea. Since taking over, he has held personal discussions with figures like Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, indicating a commitment to giving individuals a fresh start. This approach could benefit Jackson, who has become somewhat forgotten at Chelsea after his loan move.
Jackson's youth and proven goal-scoring ability in the Premier League make him an attractive option. If Delap is sold, Jackson's return could facilitate a career resurgence at Stamford Bridge under Rosenior's guidance, avoiding the need for a costly external signing.
In other news, pundits Paul Merson and Chris Sutton have made predictions for the upcoming Arsenal vs Chelsea match, with some labeling it a 'free hit' for the Blues.
