News of Chelsea’s reported interest in Stoke’s veteran centre-forward Peter Crouch certainly came as a surprise to many, but the former England international ticks every box on paper at least.
The 37-year-old, who holds the record for most headed goals in Premier League history with 51, certainly fits the mould of a tall striker who can act as the focal point of the attack behind Alvaro Morata, but Stoke have denied that he is available.
Having only signed a new deal in November running until the end of next season, Crouch is understood to be keen on a move to Chelsea this month having come from a family of Blues supporters, but in talks with the striker this week, Paul Lambert illustrated his desire to retain the target man.
That being said, the Independent understands that Stoke would be willing to sell Crouch to Chelsea if they received a good enough offer and sourced a replacement in time.
Given his age, it’s unlikely that Stoke would command a huge fee for Crouch which would play into Chelsea’s hands if they cannot secure other targets.
West Ham’s Marko Arnautovic, Tottenham’s Fernando Llorente, Burnley’s Ashley Barnes and Roma’s Edin Dzeko have all been linked this month.
