Sources have confirmed to us that talks have progressed in recent days, with Chelsea increasingly confident of securing an agreement for the 35-year-old in what would be one of the most unexpected deals of the summer window. Optimism is high that a deal can be finalised, with Brighton understood to be open to sanctioning the departure of the forward, who has a year remaining on his current contract, should the right offer be made.
The former England international striker scored 13 Premier League goals last term – the best return of his career – and we understand that those performances convinced Chelsea’s recruitment team that he still has several seasons of top-level football left.
However, in the last two campaigns, he has played a total of 76 games, scoring 25 goals, and missing just six matches due to injury.
Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu have all been told they are free to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, with departures for the trio expected before the transfer window closes. Chelsea currently have five strikers on their books in Joao Pedro, who is considered untouchable, Emmanuel Emegha, Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu. While Joao Pedro managed 15 goals and eight assists in the Premier League of his own, Liam Delap found the back of the net just once despite making 28 appearances, sparking concern over his suitability to the club.