As the Premier League season progresses, Chelsea finds itself in a favorable position, sitting second in the standings. The team has a chance to close the gap to leaders Arsenal when they meet this Sunday. However, to achieve a decisive victory, they need their strikers, particularly summer acquisition Liam Delap, to perform. Recent reports, however, suggest that Chelsea may be considering a more dynamic option.
Chelsea Targets Liam Delap Upgrade
Amidst their continuous investment in talent, Chelsea is exploring options for a new young striker ahead of the January transfer window. Reports highlight their interest in several players, including Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, who is valued at approximately £62 million, and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo. However, neither of these players have been likened to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. Instead, another striker, Robinio Vaz, has emerged as a key target for the club.
The Blues are reportedly in talks with Marseille regarding a move for Vaz, which could cost around €30 million, equivalent to £26 million. Competition is fierce, with clubs such as Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, Sevilla, and Napoli also vying for his signature. This potentially complicated transfer process could lead Chelsea to reevaluate their commitment to Delap.
Vaz: A Rising Star with Drogba Comparisons
Vaz has drawn comparisons to Drogba, particularly due to his unique playing style and versatility. Not only is he a proficient goal scorer, but he also excels at creating opportunities for teammates. A marketing analyst noted that he possesses a remarkable ability to hold up the ball, indicative of his playmaking skills.
Comparing Player Performance
| Player | Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists | Goal Involvements per Match | Minutes per Goal Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaz | 14 | 331 | 4 | 2 | 0.42 | 55.16 |
| Delap | 7 | 294 | 0 | 0 | N/A | N/A |
At just 18 years old, Vaz has already made a significant impact, scoring four goals and assisting twice in 14 appearances. This translates to a goal or assist approximately every 2.33 games, or one every 55.16 minutes. In contrast, Delap, who has played nearly as many minutes but has yet to score or assist, may find his place in jeopardy should Chelsea secure the signing of Vaz.
While both players show promise, Vaz’s impressive track record and potential elevation to stardom suggest he could be a transformative addition for Chelsea. As the Thunderbolts look to strengthen their attacking options, this potential signing could indeed spell trouble for Liam Delap.
