Chelsea’s struggles in front of goal are not unknown. They might have ended their overall losing streak with the FA Cup semi-final victory over Leeds United but let’s not forget that in the Premier League, they have still lost five on the trot without scoring a goal. Many will point towards Joao Pedro as a reliable source of goals this season, but the Brazilian forward has blown hot and cold.
At the very least, Chelsea need someone who can compete with Pedro for the starting spot. Liam Delap, with three goals in 43 appearances, is nowhere near doing that.
So, Chelsea should be keeping their eye out on potential strikers they could sign this summer. They have been linked with Julian Alvarez for a while. Victor Osimhen could be a potential option as well. But now, another name seems to have cropped up on their radar.
It is someone who did not exactly impress at Aston Villa but has been a revelation on loan at AS Roma, who are expected to take up the €25 million option to buy in his deal.
Chelsea interested in AS Roma striker with 12 goals in 16 games
According to Corriere dello Sport, Chelsea have already turned their radar on Donyell Malen. Manchester United, Barcelona and Newcastle United are watching him as well.
Malen’s output since joining AS Roma on loan has been phenomenal. He has scored 12 times in 16 appearances for the Italian club, alongside providing a couple of assists as well.
The goals have come against in-form teams as well. He has scored a brace against Napoli and also found the back of the net against Juventus and Como. He also has a hattrick against Pisa to his name.
Would Malen be what the Blues need right now?
There is no denying the form that Malen has been since joining Roma. That being said, one cannot overlook his struggles in Aston Villa colours.
Could it be a sign that he is not the right fit in the Premier League? Of course, he is doing brilliantly in the Serie A, but it is very different style of football. The Italian game is lot slower and much more tactics-based than the fast-paced, physical English top flight.
So, if Chelsea do end up signing Malen, it would be a risk. And it is one that they need to measure carefully before making any move. There is little room for error after four poor seasons under BlueCo.
