Chelsea’s Premier League title hopes suffered another setback on Sunday after they failed to take full advantage of an opportunity to gain three points against Everton at Goodison Park, allowing Liverpool to extend their lead.
The Blues now trail Liverpool by four points, with the Reds having a game in hand. This gap increased after Liverpool’s dominant 6-3 win over Tottenham Hotspur on the same day.
Enzo Maresca’s team will regret not converting the chances they created in their 0-0 draw with Everton. Despite controlling 75% of possession and generating three clear-cut opportunities, Chelsea couldn’t find the back of the net. Nicolas Jackson missed two of those chances, highlighting the team’s ongoing struggle with clinical finishing. The Senegalese forward has only scored once in his last three Premier League appearances and has squandered several significant opportunities during that stretch. Chelsea had hoped to strengthen their forward line in the summer by signing another striker to compete with Jackson, but they were unable to finalize a deal before the transfer window closed.
Chelsea’s Missed Opportunity with Samu Aghehowa
One of Chelsea’s key summer targets was Atletico Madrid’s Samu Aghehowa (formerly Samu Omorodion), and a £34.5 million deal was reportedly in place. However, a contractual dispute led to the collapse of the move, and Aghehowa eventually joined Porto. Since then, the 20-year-old has been in outstanding form, scoring 16 goals in 20 appearances this season, including a brace against Manchester United in the Europa League. This marks a significant improvement from his eight goals during a loan spell at Alaves last season.
Aghehowa has demonstrated excellent finishing ability, with 11 goals from just 5.45 xG in the Portuguese league. In comparison, Jackson has missed as many clear chances in his last three games as Aghehowa has all season. This contrast highlights what Chelsea may have missed by not securing the Spanish striker.
New Targets for January: Liam Delap
Chelsea is now focusing on reinforcements for their attack ahead of the January transfer window, with Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap among their key targets. The 21-year-old, who joined Ipswich from Manchester City for £20 million in the summer, has impressed in his first Premier League season despite his team’s struggles. Delap has scored six goals from 4.41 xG in 16 appearances, showcasing his clinical finishing.
Chelsea has reportedly held talks with Delap’s representatives, and the player is said to be open to a move if a deal can be arranged. Manchester City retains a buy-back clause but is unlikely to activate it in January, which could open the door for Chelsea to secure the promising forward.
Why Chelsea Should Act
Maresca should push for Delap’s signing, as the young striker combines potential with proven efficiency.
Much like Aghehowa has thrived after moving to a top club, Delap could benefit from a stronger supporting cast at Stamford Bridge. His impressive youth record and current form in the Premier League suggest he could be the dynamic forward Chelsea needs to bolster their attack.
