Star Strikers on Chelsea’s Radar as Maresca Targets New Options | OneFootball

Chelsea Eye Sesko and Delap as Summer Striker Hunt Intensifies

Early Transfer Moves Reflect Maresca’s Urgency

Chelsea are no strangers to bold transfer windows, but this summer promises to carry a different tone—one of strategy over scattergun. With new boss Enzo Maresca keen to reshape his forward options, TEAMtalk reports the club are already working behind the scenes to secure reinforcements early.

“TEAMtalk sources have stated that Chelsea are already ‘deliberating’ over several strikers and have made ‘serious moves’ towards two in particular.” The primary name on their shortlist is Benjamin Sesko, the RB Leipzig forward whose performances in the Bundesliga have made him a hot property across Europe.

The Slovene’s mix of athleticism, finishing, and link-up play makes him a highly attractive option for Chelsea’s evolving system under Maresca. “Chelsea are big admirers of RB Leipzig striker Sesko and we can reveal that they have made contact with his agents to gauge the possibility of signing him this summer.”

Photo IMAGO

£50m Sesko Battle Could Go Down to the Wire

Chelsea aren’t alone in their admiration. Arsenal have also been in regular dialogue with Sesko’s representatives, and the race could quickly escalate. The 20-year-old’s reported £50 million price tag makes him accessible for Premier League clubs with ambition and resources, but time will be of the essence.

Chelsea’s forward line this season has leaned heavily on Nicolas Jackson. While talented, the Senegalese striker has often lacked consistent support in big moments. Sesko’s potential arrival would signal more than just competition—it would bring a stylistic alternative, a striker who thrives on vertical movement and is adept at finishing under pressure.

Should Arsenal’s interest harden into a formal bid, Chelsea must act decisively. Sesko fits the modern Premier League mould—physical, mobile, and able to contribute beyond the penalty box.

Photo IMAGO

Delap Emerges as Domestic Option

If Sesko is the continental headline, Liam Delap represents the domestic intrigue. The former Manchester City prospect, now plying his trade at Ipswich Town, has impressed with 10 Premier League goals in a struggling side. Still only 21, Delap is beginning to find his rhythm at senior level.

“Chelsea have made contact with Delap’s entourage, too, and believe they are in a strong position to land the England Under-21s international.”

His profile offers a different type of option—more traditional in his hold-up play and aerial threat, but still mobile enough to fit Maresca’s system. Ipswich are expected to demand £40 million regardless of their league status, and with Liverpool and Newcastle also monitoring the situation, the competition could grow intense.

Chelsea would also need to navigate Manchester City’s clauses, including a 20% sell-on fee and a £40 million buy-back clause that, according to TEAMtalk, is not expected to be activated this summer.

Photo: IMAGO

Wider Squad Plans Taking Shape

While striker remains the clear priority, Chelsea’s board are also said to be targeting defensive reinforcements, with Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen another name on their radar. The intent is clear: support Maresca early, back his tactical blueprint, and build from the front foot.

The club’s approach contrasts with recent years of late-window panic buys and overstocked squads. For Chelsea, this summer is about refining—not just spending. The striker shortlist of Sesko and Delap reflects a desire to blend potential and pedigree, and do so with intention.

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For Chelsea fans, this is the kind of clarity that’s been long overdue. The post-Tuchel era has seen too many chaotic windows filled with short-term fixes and long-term consequences. But under Maresca, there’s a growing sense of alignment between coach and recruitment.

Sesko’s name is bound to excite supporters. He offers pace, power, and an upward trajectory that fits the club’s new philosophy. Delap, meanwhile, might not generate the same headlines, but his development and Premier League exposure make him a smart investment—especially if Chelsea are building for depth rather than superstardom.

With Arsenal circling Sesko and other clubs interested in Delap, Chelsea must now move with purpose. Get these deals done early and the mood around Stamford Bridge will shift from cautious hope to genuine optimism. After all, it’s not just about spending—it’s about smart spending. And that’s what this new Chelsea project must be built on.a