Chelsea set for Ronaldo rethink after Broja injury amid reports of 'Boehly U-turn'

Chelsea are reportedly heading into the January transfer market for a striker with the news of Armando Broja's knee injury - and could reignite their interest in former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Broja was forced off during Chelsea's 1-0 friendly defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Albanian striker was left screaming in agony following a collision with Villa defender Ezri Konsa, and there were immediate concerns over his wellbeing.

It was confirmed on Wednesday morning that the 21-year-old has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and will miss the remainder of the season.

The injury leaves the Blues with a shortage of options up front. They sold Timo Werner to RB Leipzig in the summer, whilst Romelu Lukaku is on loan at Inter Milan.

Kai Havertz can play in a centre forward role, but it is not his natural position, while Raheem Sterling is also not a natural number nine.

It is likely, therefore, that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be given a more prominent role for the Blues - but the club will also reportedly attempt to bring in another striker.

Ronaldo could be one player they go back in for.

Chelsea to step up Ronaldo interest?

Chelsea were heavily linked with Ronaldo last summer, when the player wanted to depart Manchester United. Blues owner Todd Boehly is believed to be a big fan of the 37-year-old.

But CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs claimed that then-manager Thomas Tuchel did not want to sign Ronaldo, and the deal did not go ahead.

With Graham Potter now in charge, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea go back in for a player they previously failed to sign, or whether Ronaldo would entertain any offer.

He is currently a free agent, having left United via 'mutual agreement' last month following the publication of his controversial interview with Piers Morgan.

Football.London have hinted that Boehly might be set to perform a U-turn and reignite interest in Ronaldo, but it remains to be seen whether he will turn down wealthy advances from the Middle East to remain in the Premier League, and play Champions League football.