Chelsea’s interest in £41m striker likened to Erling Haaland isn’t as strong as Arsenal’s

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Chelsea may not be prepared to go all out against Arsenal to sign one centre-forward during this transfer window.

It has been claimed that Enzo Maresca wants to sign a new striker this month. Nicolas Jackson is currently Chelsea‘s first-choice No.9 and was doing a good job leading the line.

In 19 Premier League appearances this season, the 23-year-old has scored nine goals. However, in recent weeks, he has not had his shooting boots on. He has netted just once in his last six outings.

Chelsea have been linked with several strikers, so they have options this year. But their interest in one name does not appear to be as strong as Arsenal’s.

• READ MORE: Chelsea have already lined up two alternatives to sign instead of Alexander Isak from Newcastle

Arsenal more keen on Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic than Chelsea

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are interested in Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic as they consider bringing in a new forward.

However, the same outlet claims that the Blues are not as keen on the 24-year-old as Arsenal are.

If Chelsea’s interest becomes stronger and they decide that they want to sign him, though, TEAMtalk’s report says he could cost £41.5m.

It was thought that Juventus wanted £69m for Vlahovic, which is what they roughly paid Fiorentina back in 2022.

Dusan Vlahovic compared to Erling Haaland

One person who knows a lot about Vlahovic is former Partizan sporting director Ivica Iliev.

Iliev has compared the ex-Partizan player to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, going as far as to claim that he is “technically” better than him.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror in 2022, Iliev said: “I always watch him and think [he’s like] Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund, maybe now in this moment Haaland is stronger physically but believe me, technically Vlahovic is the better player.”

That bodes well for Chelsea if they do end up signing Vlahovic. Haaland is obviously one of the top strikers in the world, scoring 16 goals in 20 Premier League appearances this season.

As of now, though, the Serbian does not appear to be a priority for the Blues. Chelsea seem way more interested in Liam Delap, who gave them a torrid time in Ipswich Town’s 2-0 win against Maresca‘s side.