Chelsea Linked With Shock Transfer

Reigning Premier League champions Chelsea are apparently looking to sign a former Liverpool striker in a transfer that would surprise many.

According to The Sun, the Blues are keeping a close eye on England international and West Ham United forward Andy Carroll.

Manager Antonio Conte is believed to be keen on signing in an alternative attacker to Spaniard Alvaro Morata and Belgian Michy Batshuayi, who have both struggled in front of goal recently.

The injury-riddled Carroll has not played much football in the past two years, and was unable to play in the Hammers' past two matches due to a knock he received against Tottenham Hotspur about two weeks ago.

It is believed that West Ham are willing to let the 29-year-old forward go in this window, but not on loan, as Chelsea want.

Conte apparently feels that Carroll would be a good cheap option to have in his squad, with the added bonus that he would be eligible to play in the UEFA Champions League.

The Blues have drawn FC Barcelona in the first knockout stage of the European competition this season, and will need all the firepower he can get for that exciting fixture.

Carroll has made 12 appearances for David Moyes' men so far this season, scoring two goals and assisting one further strike.

Source: www.soccerladuma.co.za