Chelsea are reportedly interested in launching a January move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.

The Blues strengthened their forward options in the summer transfer window with the additions of Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku.

However, Chelsea received a setback when Nkunku sustained a knee injury in pre-season, which has left the France international waiting to make his debut.

Jackson, meanwhile, has struggled for consistency in the opening weeks of the season despite finding the net in a 3-0 win over Luton Town.

With Armando Broja still working his way back from a long-term injury, Chelsea are keen to bring in a proven striker in the January transfer window.

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Watkins is among the potential targets being considered by the West London club.

Chelsea were previously linked with the Villa striker during the summer transfer window and are now considering whether to step up their pursuit in January.

The 27-year-old has two years left to run on his current contract, and he is regarded as a key part of Unai Emery's side.

Although he is still waiting to open his Premier League account for the season, Watkins netted a hat-trick against Hibernian in the first leg of Villa's Europa Conference League qualifying tie.

Since joining the Villans in 2020, the forward has racked up 46 goals in 122 appearances across all competitions.

Chelsea are also keeping tabs on Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic after showing an interest in the summer transfer window, while Lille forward Jonathan David also features on their shortlist.

The Blues have identified Brenford's Ivan Toney as another target after a recent report claimed they are considering a January approach.

Mauricio Pochettino's side will return to action after the international break with an away trip to Bournemouth on Sunday. body check tags ::