Zola admits Chelsea interest in Bournemouth's Wilson

Gianfranco Zola let slip that Chelsea are interested in Callum Wilson during Tuesday's press conference, but indicated that the Blues are bracing themselves for intense competition for the Bournemouth marksman's signature.

Zola, the Chelsea legend assisting manager Maurizio Sarri at Stamford Bridge, was previewing Wednesday's League Cup quarterfinal visit from the Cherries, and was quizzed about their in-form striker.

"I'm sure there are a lot of players linked with us," Zola said, according to BBC Sport. "Callum is doing well and is of interest not only for us but for many."

Wilson has overcome ACL injuries to each of his knees to establish himself as one of the most fearsome frontmen in the Premier League. He's scored eight and assisted five for Bournemouth this season, forging a devastating partnership with diminutive Scottish winger Ryan Fraser.

Wilson first found his scoring touch with Coventry City in the third tier, but can now boast a goal-scoring England debut courtesy of a near-post finish against the United States in November. Zola predicts Wilson's rise isn't over, and that he "can go a long way" in the game.

"He's strong, fast, and he sees the goal," Zola added on the 26-year-old.

"I like him because he's also strong in the air, which is a very important quality, but I don't want to go into it too much. He's doing very well and I'm pleased for him."

Manchester City and League One's Burton Albion are already booked into the League Cup semifinals and will await which two teams join them out of Chelsea and Bournemouth and a concurrent Wednesday fixture between north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.