Chelsea make surprise move to sign 28-year-old Premier League striker

According to British media reports, Chelsea have switched their attention to Burnley forward Ashley Barnes in their search for a striker in the winter transfer window.

Sky Sports says the reigning Premier League champions are keen on signing the Burnley striker in what would possibly be one of the big surprises of the transfer market.

The same publication states that the title holders have “expressed” an interest in the ex-Austria U-20 international despite his limited experience playing at a big club.

Crucially, the same article reveals that Burnley FC still haven’t gotten any offer from Chelsea this month.

The Blues have been strongly linked with the signing of proven League strikers over the last few weeks, including West Ham United’s Andy Carroll and Stoke and England veteran striker Peter Crouch.

Ashley Barnes has only netted 17 goals in 114 Premier League matches for Burnley over the last five campaigns at Turf Moor.

Barnes, 28, has proven a key member in Burnley’s impressive English Premier League season so far after three goals in eight Premier League starts and 15 matches in the English top flight this term.

The Blues signed Ross Barkley in a £15million deal from English Premier League rivals Everton earlier in the month.