Chelsea are reportedly in discussions to sign a player dubbed the “next Haaland,” who could prove to be a stronger acquisition than Victor Osimhen.
Over the years, Chelsea supporters have enjoyed watching a number of prolific strikers lead the club to domestic success, particularly in the Premier League. Among the greats, Didier Drogba stands out as perhaps the most iconic, having scored over 100 goals during two spells at Stamford Bridge and famously netting the equaliser in the club’s dramatic 2012 Champions League final win.
Drogba’s arrival from Marseille in 2004 is still regarded as one of Chelsea’s most successful signings, with that Champions League moment sealing his legendary status at the club.
Fast forward to the present, however, and the Blues are still in search of a consistent presence up front. New head coach Enzo Maresca has found it difficult to rely on Nicolas Jackson, whose recent display in the loss to Newcastle highlighted Chelsea’s ongoing struggles in the striker position.
This has prompted the club’s leadership to begin planning for reinforcements, with the centre-forward role expected to be their top transfer priority this summer.
Chelsea’s striker search intensifies
In recent weeks, Chelsea have been linked with several attacking options as Maresca looks to reshape the squad. While Liam Delap and Jonathan David—whose deal with Lille expires this June—have been considered, a new name has emerged: Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig.
According to TEAMtalk, the Blues have already opened discussions with Sesko’s representatives. The 21-year-old Slovenian forward has scored 21 goals in all competitions during the 2024/25 season and is reportedly seen by the Chelsea hierarchy as the ideal target and a potential upgrade on the currently suspended Jackson.
Why Sesko might be the smarter move than Osimhen
While Victor Osimhen of Napoli has also been named as a possible signing, recent developments may give Chelsea pause. The Nigerian striker, currently on loan at Galatasaray after falling out of favor under Antonio Conte, has had an impressive season with 24 goals in 28 league appearances. However, acquiring Osimhen could cost Chelsea around £60 million, with several Premier League rivals also interested.
On the other hand, Benjamin Sesko may offer more value and long-term potential. Though he’s produced slightly fewer combined goals and assists than Osimhen, his accuracy in front of goal stands out. He boasts a higher shot-on-target rate and completes more passes per game, making him more effective in build-up play.
Sesko also excels in one-on-one situations and aerial duels, winning more headers and offering Chelsea a greater presence in the box—an area where the club has struggled this season, especially with crosses.
Comparative stats for the 2024/25 season:
With a playing style that mirrors that of Erling Haaland—according to talent scout Jacek Kulig—Sesko offers a more well-rounded attacking profile. His clinical nature and physical presence could provide Chelsea with the attacking focal point they’ve lacked since Drogba’s departure.
Ultimately, while both strikers could improve Chelsea’s attack, Sesko appears to be the more complete and cost-effective option for Maresca’s rebuild, making him the ideal target to lead the Blues back to the top.
