Chelsea have reportedly entered discussions with Lille regarding the potential signing of striker Jonathan Ikone.
The 22-year-old was enjoying a standout season in Ligue 1 before the campaign ended early because of coronavirus. He had notched four goals and added six assists.
Ikone’s impressive form saw him earn a call-up to the France senior squad earlier in the campaign. And he now has four caps to his name.
It is no secret that Blues boss Frank Lampard wants to bring in another forward this summer. That is despite Olivier Giroud and Tammy Abraham recently signing new contracts.
The club have signed Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech for next season, with the likes of Willian and Pedro set to move on.
Tottenham and Newcastle are also rumoured to be keen on a move for Ikone. But, according to Le 10 Sport (via the Daily Star), Chelsea are now stepping up their interest. The report claims that Inter Milan may also provide some competition for the Lille star his summer.
The report adds that the French side has not yet received a significant offer for Ikone. But they are taking the interest from Chelsea and Inter ‘very seriously’.
Ikone’s Lille contract has another three years to run. With rumours suggesting he may only leave if a ‘significant offer’ is made for his services.
Chelsea could be eyeing Ikone as a possible alternative to Kai Havertz. With Lampard recently playing down talk of the Germany star heading to London.
“He’s obviously a top player but I’m certainly not going to comment on other teams, and it cannot be our focus,” Lmaprd said.
Ikone is rated at around £32million, but it could take more than that to prize him away from Lille if several clubs are interested.
Source: Sport24
