Liam Delap: Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a deal to sign Liam Delap, the highly-rated 22-year-old striker from Ipswich Town, with sources confirming the Blues are leading the race ahead of multiple Premier League rivals.
Delap, who has a £30 million release clause, emerged as one of the few bright spots in Ipswich’s tough Premier League campaign, scoring 12 goals in 32 starts despite their eventual relegation.
According to Sky Sports News, the player has made it clear that Stamford Bridge is his preferred destination, with Chelsea’s recent qualification for the Champions League and their youth-focused strategy aligning perfectly with Delap’s career ambitions.
Having worked previously with Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca and recruitment co-director Joe Shields during his time at Manchester City, the England U21 international views this as the ideal step forward in his development.
Delap’s performances have drawn strong interest from Manchester United, Everton, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest, but Chelsea’s ability to offer Champions League football and a dynamic attacking system has given them the edge.
Analysts describe Delap as a rare breed of forward — a powerful frontman who ranks among the top Premier League players for successful take-ons while also excelling in hold-up play and off-the-ball movement.
His ability to exceed expected goals (xG) metrics further highlights his finishing instincts. With a modest fee relative to other striker valuations across Europe, investing in Delap appears to be one of the most strategic value signings of the 2025 transfer window.
As part of the ongoing discussions, Ipswich are eyeing Chelsea’s Marc Guiu as a possible replacement on loan, further indicating the advanced stage of negotiations.
Chelsea, fresh off their UEFA Conference League triumph and preparing for the Club World Cup opener in Atlanta on June 16, are expected to be busy this summer.
Delap would join a youthful squad hungry for silverware and depth up front. The move marks a key part of Chelsea’s long-term project and signals the club’s intent to return to domestic and European dominance.
For fans in the United States and around the globe, the transfer of Delap to one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs adds another exciting layer to this summer’s evolving football narrative.