Chelsea have revived their interest in highly-rated French striker Elye Wahi, according to L’Equipe.
The Blues are looking to sign a striker to compete with Nicolas Jackson, and several names have been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, Lille’s Jonathan David, Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion, and Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran have all been touted as possible targets, but the Blues are still assessing their options.
Wahi is the latest name on Chelsea’s extensive shortlist, although they are familiar with the Frenchman, having come close to signing him last summer.
Wahi was a highly sought-after prospect after his exceptional campaign with Montpellier, during which he notched 19 goals and six assists in 33 league games.
His breakout campaign drew the attention of several clubs, including Chelsea and West Ham United, but the Blues wanted to sign him and loan him to sister club RC Strasbourg.
The talented striker eventually joined RC Lens in a deal worth around £29 million, but he could be on the move after just 12 months with the Ligue 1 overachievers.
Chelsea have reignited their interest in Wahi, and reports claim they have contacted Lens to inquire about the possibility of striking an agreement.
The west Londoners are yet to make any formal bids. They are waiting for Lens to name their price before potentially formalising their interest in the striker.
West Ham are also among clubs keen to sign Wahi this summer. Like their capital neighbours, the Hammers are in the market for a prolific striker to spearhead Julen Lopetegui’s attack.
Chelsea could have an edge over West Ham, considering Lens are interested in forgotten Blues defender Malang Sarr.
The two-time Champions League winners could use the Frenchman as a makeweight in their bid to sign his countryman, who is still highly rated despite struggling to recapture his previous goalscoring form.
Wahi notched a respectable 12 goals and four assists in 37 appearances across all competitions last season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
