Chelsea are reported to have made enquiries about none other than Stoke’s veteran striker Peter Crouch.
With Alvaro Morata continuing to misfire and Michy Batshuayi failing to convince, Blues’ boss Antonio Conte is eager to strengthen his forward line, with the 36-year-old Crouch, who has scored a record 52 headed goals in the Premier League, apparently seen as a short-term solution.
West Ham target-man Andy Carroll has also been linked with a surprise move to Stamford Bridge, however, the striker has picked up an ankle injury which could see him kept out of action for a month.
A loan deal would probably suit Chelsea but new Stoke boss Paul Lambert may well dismiss a move for his 6ft 7in striker, as he tries to steer the struggling Potters clear of the drop-zone.
Other names linked with a move to Chelsea includes Christian Benteke and Fernando Llorente. However, it all seems rather strange to see the Premier League holders desperately scrabbling about for a B-Grade centre-forward.
Although, with Conte’s future in west London still uncertain come the end of this season, the club are unlikely to splash out on a top-class player for the rest of the season.
What a sight it would be to see Crouch lead the line for the Blues in their Champions League last 16 clash with Barcelona!