Chelsea decide on top striker target for January transfer and it would shock the Premier League

Chelsea have picked their top attacking target ahead of the January transfer window, and it could have massive implications on the Premier League.

Over the summer, Chelsea made their intentions known as they looked to sign a striker in the final hours of the transfer window.

The London club had hope to get a deal over the line for one of either Ivan Toney or Victor Osimhen but ultimately missed out on both, opting instead for Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix who joined as part of a swap deal.

But ahead of the upcoming January transfer window, they have already reportedly singled out the one forward that they want to sign the most.

According to the i, Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap has emerged as their ideal transfer target after the Englishman placed exceptionally highly on their transfer metrics.

Delap has taken the Premier League by storm since joining the newly promoted Ipswich from Manchester City over the summer.

In his 11 appearances in the top-flight, the 21-year-old has scored six goals and assisted one, placing him eighth in the golden boot rankings for this season so far, despite playing for a side with only one win.

And Chelsea are said to be impressed by more than just his goal output, with recruitment sources telling the i that his movement, physical threat and acceleration are all part of the reason why he could secure a big move next month.

After their failed pursuit of Napoli striker Osimhen over the summer, it is possible that Chelsea will once again enquire about the 25-year-old.

Liam Delap recently represented England during their 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualification. (Image: Getty)

However, the Blues are reportedly looking to consider younger alternatives who will have demand less in terms of wages and work well with new manager Enzo Maresca, who has committed to developing the club's younger players

But, if Delap were to make the move to Stamford Bridge, he would face stiff competition to make it into the starting lineup after Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson has enjoyed an impressive start to the 2024/25 campaign.

In his 12 Premier League for Chelsea this season, Jackson has bagged seven goals and assisted three, making it likely that he will improve on last season's 14 goals in 35 appearances.