Chelsea Plans Summer Transfers Targeting Centre-Backs, Strikers

Chelsea is actively preparing for a busy summer transfer window with a focus on strengthening their defense and striking options. The club has targeted Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen as a primary centre-back option but is preparing alternatives like Marc Guehi, Jarrad Branthwaite, and Jorrel Hato, given Huijsen's preference for Real Madrid and Liverpool. Up front, Chelsea faces challenges with inconsistent scoring from Nicolas Jackson, who is now sidelined for the season due to a red card, prompting the club to seek a new striker. Potential striking targets include Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen, and Samu Aghehowa, with Delap reportedly being a high-priority target despite interest from Manchester United. Manager Enzo Maresca emphasizes finding a striker similar to Jackson to improve goal-scoring consistency and secure Champions League qualification. The club is carefully weighing options amid competition from other Premier League teams, aiming to address their significant chance conversion issues and bolster the squad for next season.