‘WHAT A BOMBSHELL: Enzo Maresca eyes shock move for 26-year-old striker in coming days
According to shocking sources in Spain, Chelsea is considering making a surprise approach for Josh Maja, a forward for West Bromwich Albion.
According to Fichajes, the 26-year-old has scored 12 goals in 26 Championship games so far this season, and Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have taken notice of his play at The Hawthorns.
Maja’s current contract with West Brom is slated to expire in 18 months, and the Baggies are expected to seek a sum of approximately €18 million in order to approve a move during the January transfer window.
Chelsea have now emerged as surprise candidates to sign the former Bordeaux star this month as Enzo Maresca searches for forward reinforcements amid the club’s shaky recent form.
Maja netted three goals in 15 Premier League games during a six-month loan spell with Fulham in 2021, but the bulk of his experience in English football has come in the Championship and League One.
Chelsea want a new centre forward
Christopher Nkunku has been heavily linked with a Chelsea departure amid his struggles for game time so far this season, while Marc Guiu has been tentatively tipped to leave Stamford Bridge on loan in order to continue his development.
As a result, Chelsea are in the market for a new centre forward, with Victor Osimhen constantly touted to join the Blues and Viktor Gyokeres also on the club’s radar.
Jonathan David could represent a bargain opportunity this summer, given he is set to become a free agent when his Lille contract expires at the end of June, while Chelsea are monitoring Liam Delap’s progress at Ipswich Town.
Nicolas Jackson has failed to score in each of his last four Premier League appearances, with Chelsea picking up just two points during that time, although he has netted nine goals in 20 games so far this campaign.