Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland has emerged as a reported transfer target for Chelsea next summer.
Blues owner Roman Abramovich splashed the cash last summer, as Frank Lampard spent over £200m on seven new signings to bolster his first-team squad at Stamford Bridge.
But with question marks over Tammy Abraham and Olivier Giroud as well as Timo Werner's recent struggles, another centre-forward could be what Lampard needs to complete his squad.
Hence links to one of the most prolific strikers around.
The Norway international has scored 33 goals in 32 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund since making the move from Red Bull Salzburg at the start of 2020.
With form like that, it's no surprise that some Europe's top clubs have expressed an interest in the 20-year-old, and it's been claimed that Chelsea have joined the race.
According to Sky Sports Italia, Haaland is one of the Blues' top transfer targets for next summer.
In addition, the report states that West Ham United midfielder and England international Declan Rice also of interest to Lampard.
Should Haaland leave Dortmund next summer, there will be a host of clubs queuing up for his signature. But Chelsea may have the advantage thanks to their head coach.
Lampard's status as an icon across European football has been underlined by Haaland in the past.
In quick-fire Q&A with ESPN, Haaland was previously asked who the one player he’d want to have played with that’s retired and replied: "Frank Lampard."
Could the Norwegian be soon granted the opportunity to work under his idol?
Interestingly, Hakim Ziyech agrees with Haaland regarding Lampard as the £33.4m summer signing from Ajax also looked up to the Blues legend during his playing days.
"In his time he was such a big player and he was a midfielder so I can learn a lot from him. In that regard, I have a lot to learn.
"I had a good feeling after our talks and that feeling only became stronger. There was no doubt in my mind."
