Chelsea’s striker hunt dealt huge blow as Bournemouth cling on to Callum Wilson

CHELSEA'S Callum Wilson pursuit has hit a road block, according to reports.

Blues boss Maurizio Sarri is desperate to bring in a new front man, with Alvaro Morata struggling.

But despite forking out £19million to sign Dominic Solanke from Liverpool, the Cherries will not sell Wilson, reports the Mirror.

Jermain Defoe was shipped out to Rangers on an 18-month deal to fee up funds.

And that gives Bournemouth chance to hold firm and keep hold of 10-goal Wilson - their top scorer.

The 26-year-old is seen as key to the club's survival bid, with Solanke unlikely to play until February due to injury.

Sarri’s assistant Gianfranco Zola admitted his side were chasing Wilson last month, saying : “Callum is doing well and is of interest not only for us but for many.”

Gonzalo Higuain is also on Chelsea's radar, while Cesc Fabregas is heading to Monaco after bidding farewell yesterday.

Meanwhile, Callum Hudson-Odoi is still the subject of a £30m bid from Bayern Munich as the Blues try to get the ace to sign a new deal.

Christian Pulisic arrived for £58m from Borussia Dortmund but has been loaned back to Germany for the rest of the season.