Chelsea are now planning to explore other center-forward options after securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League and winning the UEFA Conference League.
According to reports from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are now closing in on a deal to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. The 22-year-old has a £30 million release clause, which can be activated if Ipswich are relegated — which they were. Clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea were battling for his signature, but ultimately, Manchester United’s lack of European football made them lose out to Chelsea.
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s coach, personally sees Delap as a key part of the project. He envisions Delap partnering with Nicolas Jackson in attack, especially with Christopher Nkunku's exit reportedly set in place.
Delap, who has long been on the radar of Premier League clubs and is considered Premier League-proven, registered 12 goals and 2 assists in 34 games. Though these numbers may not seem extraordinary, his performance is considered decent given he played for a relegated side where passes to the box were limited. Plus it's not like Chelsea has a problem with chance creation. I mean if you look at the chances Chelsea this season.
Some fans still want the club to sign an older and more experienced striker capable of scoring 20 league goals. However, it's unclear what Chelsea’s board sees in Delap — they might see qualities others overlook.
As of now, Delap is leaning toward signing with Chelsea, as he believes he would play a key role in their long-term project. The deal is already being finalized at the club-to-club level.
Chelsea have also made inquiries about Hugo Ekitike, though nothing concrete has materialized yet.
It also remains unclear whether the Blues will pursue another center-forward such as Victor Osimhen or Viktor Gyökeres after signing Delap. Given their return to the Champions League, which will bring a more intense schedule, signing another striker remains a possibility.
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