Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola has revealed Bournemouth striker Callum Wilson is one of the club's January transfer targets ahead of their League Cup clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have played large parts of the first half of the season with Eden Hazard operating as a ‘false nine’ forward, with Maurizio Sarri growing frustrated by Alvaro Morata’s poor goals return.
Olivier Giroud is Chelsea’s only other option in central attacking areas, which could prompt them to turn their attention to England and Bournemouth striker Callum Wilson in January.
Wilson scored on his England debut to mark a fine run of form at the start of the season, and the 26-year-old has impressed Zola.
"I'm sure there are a lot of players linked with us. Certainly Callum Wilson is doing well for his club and is of interest not only of us but for many,” said the Chelsea assistant manager ahead of Wednesday’s quarter-final.
"He's strong, fast, and he sees the goal. I like because he's quick, but also strong in the air, which is a very important quality.
"But I don't want to go too much into it. He's doing very well. I'm pleased for him. He has a lot of qualities that can take him a long way."
Chelsea’s lack of fire-power in the final third will be laid bare against Bournemouth with Morata sidelined with a knee injury and Hazard facing a late fitness test due to a foot problem, making Giroud the only available forward.
“Hazard is one of our best players, so to have him available is a big deal, but we don't want to compromise anything," Zola added.
The Blues beat Bournemouth at this stage of the competition last season but lost 3-0 against Eddie Howe’s side in the Premier League a few weeks later.
"We know Bournemouth is a dangerous team. They've gone far, even from last year. They keep improving,” said Zola.
"A very good coach (Eddie Howe) and a good team. We know the game will have a lot of difficulties. With all respect we know our potential, we're getting better. We've had our bad spell, but we're coming strong from that. We approach the game with a lot of confidence."
