Chelsea have been struggling in the past few weeks - especially in front of goal.

After an entertaining 2-2 score-line at Arsenal to start the month, the Blues then followed that result up with three consecutive 0-0 draws as the goals dried up.

And they struggled to break down Championship side Norwich City on Wednesday night, eventually prevailing on penalties after the game finished 1-1 after extra time.

With Alvaro Morata's early season form having completely dissipated, and Antonio Conte's apparent distrust in back-up striker Michy Batshuayi, it is clear that they need to bolster their ranks with a new striker.

But, instead of targeting a big money star, it has been reported that Chelsea are eyeing up a move for Andy Carroll in what would be one of the most surprising January moves.

Despite heavy interest David Moyes has claimed that West Ham have not received an approach for their target man.

"Chelsea have not made contact with me," Moyes said after West Ham's FA Cup third round replay victory against Shrewsbury on Tuesday night.

"If they have made contact with someone else, I don’t know about it. At the moment Andy has an ankle injury. He had an injection 10 days ago and we’re hoping he will be training soon."

BUT REPORTS CLAIM CARROLL ISN'T INJURED 

As Moyes alluded to a few days ago, Carroll is said to have been suffering from an ankle injury in recent times, which has kept him out of his side's last three games.

However, a report from the Daily Mirror has emerged claiming that scans have revealed there is no problem with Carroll's ankle.

Although inconclusive, this may suggest that Carroll is refusing to play in order to force through a move to Conte's side.

The report also concludes that whilst they have had received no bids for the 29-year-old, West Ham would be willing to accept any offer of over £20 million from their London rivals.

However, regardless of whether Chelsea decide to make an approach for the striker, it is completely unacceptable if Carroll is indeed refusing to play for his current side.

IS CARROLL THE ANSWER FOR CHELSEA?

It is obvious Chelsea need goals in order to get them out of their slump, so it may considered a little strange that they are targeting someone of which has struggled to hit the back of the net on a consistent basis.

The Englishman only has two goals to his name to far this year, and has only once scored more than ten goals in a Premier League season: back in 2010/2011.

However, despite not being a consistent goal-scorer, he would undoubtedly provide a plan B, with Carroll known for his prowess in the air.

There would be concerns about Carroll's fitness, but he could well prove to a be a reliable back-up for Morata if he is able to stay injury free.