Sarri hints at the need for Chelsea to sign attackers in January

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has hinted his side need attacking reinforcements after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton.

The goalless stalemate at Stamford Bridge saw Arsenal close the gap on Sarri’s fourth-placed side to just three points, as they seek qualification for the Champions League.

Chelsea announced the £57 million signing of Christian Pulisic on Wednesday, though the US international will not arrive from Borussia Dortmund until the summer, whilst the club have also been credited with an interest in AC Milan striker Gonzalo Higuaín.

Recognised forwards Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud have failed to impress this season, with Eden Hazard having been used in a central role in recent weeks, and Sarri has hinted at his board to back him in the transfer market.

“On the bench I tried to do my job. I think we played a very good match for 80 metres of the pitch, then we were in trouble in the last 20 metres.’’ Sarri told the press after last nights game.

“We have to try to solve the problem of the last 15, 20 metres.”

“The club knows very well my opinion. I think we need something different for characteristics.

“I’m not in charge of the market. I have to try to improve my players, my team, my offensive phase, or better my offensive phase in the last 20 metres.

“The club knows my position, my opinion. It’s up to the board.”