Paul Merson backs Chelsea striker to pursue a fresh challenge

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has backed Tammy Abraham to pursue a fresh challenge away from Chelsea this summer.

Abraham is the Blues' top scorer this term with 12 goals, but he has fallen out-of-favour since Thomas Tuchel became the club's manager in January.

The striker has been an unused substitute in a number of matches, and Merson believes the Blues graduate should push for an exit.

He told Sky Sports News: "I think he will be on his way, I think Abraham will be on his way."

"There will be plenty of takers, absolute plenty of takers for me, but not at one of the top clubs at the moment."

West Ham United are among the leading contenders to sign the England international, and Abraham may be tempted to join them.

The Hammers have outperformed this term, and they are currently occupying the final Champions League spot.

They have just one specialist striker in their squad in Michail Antonio, but the 31-year-old has been injury prone lately.

Abraham could establish himself as the main man upfront for the Hammers.