Imagine him & Jackson combo – Chelsea want to sign £33m Nkunku upgrade
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s Quest for a Prolific Number Nine: Current Strikers and Future Options
Chelsea has been on an unrelenting hunt for a reliable and prolific number nine since Romelu Lukaku’s high-profile return to Stamford Bridge failed to deliver. Despite spending £97.5 million to bring Lukaku back in 2021, his second stint resulted in just 44 appearances, yielding 15 goals and one assist before his departure.
Subsequent attempts to fill the striker void—using Kai Havertz in a makeshift role or bringing in players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and David Datro Fofana—also fell short. Now, Chelsea’s attacking responsibilities are shared by Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, and Marc Guiu. While they have collectively contributed 17 goals in the 2024/25 season, the hunt for a more imposing, all-round striker remains a priority.
How Chelsea’s Current Strikers Compare
Nicolas Jackson
Jackson has cemented his place as the starting striker under Enzo Maresca, scoring six goals and delivering three assists in 901 minutes. His tireless work ethic, ability to run the channels, and link-up play have made him a trusted figure in the manager’s system. However, his aerial prowess remains a concern, with an average of just 0.52 aerial duels won per 90 minutes.
Christopher Nkunku
Nkunku has been used as a versatile forward, often starting cup games and coming off the bench in the Premier League. Despite limited minutes (688), he has scored an impressive ten goals and provided one assist in 17 appearances. Nkunku’s clinical finishing, sharp movement, and instincts around the box set him apart. His 0.95 aerial duels won per 90 also outshines Jackson, but both fall short in dominating opponents in the air.
Marc Guiu
The summer signing from Barcelona for £5 million is a promising addition to Chelsea’s ranks. Although he has made just seven appearances and scored one goal, Guiu’s pressing, hard-working nature, and ability to hassle defenders make him an intriguing prospect for the future.
Metrics and Tactical Fit
Nkunku excels in areas like shot volume, goals per 90, and expected goals (xG), showcasing his efficiency in front of goal. On the other hand, Jackson contributes significantly to Chelsea’s dynamics with his relentless pressing, movement, and ability to stretch defenses. Despite these strengths, both players lack aerial dominance, an area Chelsea is keen to address, particularly when facing low-block defenses.
Chelsea’s Interest in Liam Delap
Reports indicate that Chelsea is closely monitoring Ipswich Town’s striker Liam Delap as a potential addition. The 21-year-old, who joined Ipswich permanently last summer, has had a stellar start to the season, scoring six goals and providing one assist in 796 minutes. Notably, he has outperformed his xG of 2.4 by a remarkable +3.6, demonstrating his clinical finishing ability.
Delap’s physical attributes—standing at 6’1” with a stocky build—make him a formidable aerial presence. He wins 1.05 aerial duels per 90, significantly higher than Jackson or Nkunku. His ability to bully defenders and offer a direct threat in the box makes him an attractive option for Chelsea’s scouting team.
Why Chelsea Needs a Different Profile Striker
Chelsea’s current attacking lineup lacks a physical presence capable of dominating aerial battles and posing a consistent threat against compact defenses. A player like Delap would complement the existing qualities of Jackson and Nkunku, providing Maresca with a tactical alternative in challenging matches.
Whether it’s Delap or another target, Chelsea’s search for a different-profile striker highlights their determination to adapt and strengthen their squad to regain competitiveness.
