Chelsea without injured striker until January

Chelsea will be without Christopher Nkunku until January following his knee surgery earlier this month.

The Frenchman joined the Blues from RB Leipzig earlier in the transfer window, and he had an impressive pre-season.

However, he picked up a knee injury against Borussia Dortmund, and it is now reported that he won't return until January.

It was initially suggested that Nkunku could return in time for the festive period, but his concern is much more serious.

The news will come as a huge blow for the Blues, who were planning to play the Frenchman as their main centre-forward.

In his absence, Nicolas Jackson is the natural replacement in the role. He too has been impressive since his summer arrival.

Raheem Sterling is the alternate option for manager Mauricio Pochettino. It remains to be seen whether they sign another striker.

Dusan Vlahovic has been linked for a number of weeks, but Pochettino does not appear keen on working with the Serbian ace.