Chelsea Close In On Liam Delap After Ipswich's Drop
Liverpool fans might want to turn their attention elsewhere, because right now, Chelsea look set to snatch one of the summer’s most-discussed young forwards. Liam Delap, the 22-year-old striker who rattled in 12 goals for Ipswich Town during the 2024-25 Premier League season, has become the focus of a major transfer tussle since Ipswich's relegation triggered a £30 million release clause in his contract.
It’s not often that a young English striker with double-digit goals becomes available without a protracted auction. That release clause changes the game entirely, and it's why we’re already seeing top-flight clubs circling. Delap’s form for the Tractor Boys—especially in a struggling side—sparked serious interest, and with Ipswich set for a campaign in the Championship, keeping hold of him now looks impossible.
Why Chelsea Have the Edge
Several big teams have put their hats in the ring. Manchester United and Newcastle United both signaled their intent, but Chelsea have swooped in with momentum—and a Champions League ticket for next season as bait. That’s no small thing. For a 22-year-old eager for both trophies and exposure, the chance to play under the bright lights of Europe beats another year in a rebuilding side, hands down.
But it’s not just about European nights—there’s also some familiar faces for Delap to consider. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca and co-director Joe Shields both know the striker from their stints at Manchester City’s youth setup. Those connections can smooth talks, make a new club feel a bit less daunting, and might just tip the scales Chelsea’s way.
According to Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, Delap and his representatives have already held meetings with a handful of clubs. Chelsea’s name isn't just on the list—it’s circled at the top, alongside other striker targets like RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Paris Saint-Germain’s Hugo Ekitike. Still, Delap has emerged as the priority, especially after Chelsea’s Europa Conference League victory gave them another confidence boost ahead of the transfer window opening on June 1.
Sources inside Chelsea expect the club to press the accelerator now, with senior execs pushing for an early signature so Delap can be part of preseason plans and join the squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup campaign. If everything clicks into place, don’t be surprised to see Delap wearing blue at Stamford Bridge well before July.
It’s a busy summer for Chelsea, but bringing in a talented young striker like Delap—who’s already proven he can score in the Premier League—ticks a lot of boxes for the club’s long-term ambitions. Watch this space, because this transfer saga looks set to move fast.
- May, 29 2025
- Cassius Montgomery
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