Former Chelsea defender William Gallas believes striker Nicholas Jackson's position is under threat after what has so far been an underwhelming campaign.
After a summer transfer window which saw Chelsea flex their financial muscles and bring in a number of new faces, it was expected that the team would challenge for the Premier League and be in contention for a UEFA Champions League place next season.
But while Chelsea are still in contention to lift the FA Cup come May, they are eleventh in the Premier League and behind the chasing pack for a European place.
As expected, fingers are being pointed at certain players as to why Chelsea are failing and one of those is Jackson who has managed to score just 8 goals in 23 Premier League appearances.
This below-par return has led to rumours that Chelsea will look to sign a new striker in the upcoming summer transfer window, and Gallas believes that this could be the case if Jackson does not step up in the final weeks of the 2023/24 season.
“Victor Osimhen to Chelsea? One player won't make the difference and change things around for Chelsea. Even if they buy one striker, you have to be sure the players around him have the quality to supply that striker," Gallas told Genting Casino.
"The squad is very young, so next year we may see an improvement in the team and they might compete for the Premier League.
“We have to see how many goals Nicolas Jackson will score, he has eight at the moment. If Jackson cannot reach 15 Premier League goals or more, then Chelsea need a top striker, because at the moment they don't have it.
“Nicolas Jackson has to prove it now. If he doesn't reach between 15 and 20 Premier League goals, it will be difficult for him to keep a place in the team next season.
"Chelsea will sign a new striker. He has to take his opportunities now, whilst he has them, he needs to work very hard and become more consistent. That's what it takes to play at a big club like Chelsea.”
Chelsea return to Premier League action on Monday night when they welcome Newcastle United to Stamford Bridge in a game which could prove vital in the race for Europe.
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