Chelsea identify £87m striker to sign for Maresca

The Premier League west London club has identified centre-forward as a priority to bolster their manager Enzo Maresca’s squad.

Nicolas Jackson has been blowing hot and cold across his two opening years at Stamford Bridge, while Christopher Nkunku has also flattered to deceive since arriving from RB Leipzig.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Chelsea has been alerted to Pavlidis’ goalscoring exploits at Benfica and views the attacker as a player who could compete with Jackson up front.

Pavlidis has established himself as one of the top attacking talents in the Portuguese top-flight league.

The 26-year-old has managed 24 goals in all competitions for Benfica.

He has also scored seven UEFA Champions League goals this season.

However, Chelsea could face stiff competition from Newcastle United, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid if they are to step up their pursuit of Pavlidis in the coming weeks.