Chelsea intensify efforts to become favourites for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, as Enzo Maresca hopes to add a new striker to his squad.

Liam Delap, 22, left Manchester City to join Ipswich Town following their promotion to the Premier League during the summer transfer window. He has been leading the Tractor Boys’ survival charge with 10 goals and two assists in 26appearances, impressing with his ability to find the back of the net, physicality, running power and hold-up play.

Thus, it is not surprising that the 22-year-old finds himself on the radar of Premier League elites. Chelsea are reportedly keen to move into pole position for Delap’s signature, although they face competition from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool. The Englishman—enjoying his breakout top-flight campaign—could cost in the region of £40m.

Chelsea eye summer swoop for Liam Delap

Chelsea are set to splash big again in the transfer window, trying to plug the holes in Enzo Maresca’s squad. One of the positions that the Pensioners are planning to address is the attacking unit, with a clinical goalscorer the need of the hour.

Nicolas Jackson hasn’t proven himself to be a regular source of goals since arriving at Stamford Bridge from Villarreal in 2023. While he has shown signs of improvement under Maresca, the Senegalese cannot be relied upon to lead the attack and deliver the goods consistently. In his injury absence, Christopher Nkunku has failed to step up as a No.9.

So, Chelsea could do very well with a new No.9, and Delap would fit the bill perfectly. It is difficult to see a talent like Delap staying at Ipswich for much longer—regardless of the club’s position. A battering ram with good technical ability, the Englishman would be an upgrade on the inconsistent Jackson while bringing a more direct dimension to the Blues’ attacks.

Due to his physicality and aerial ability, the ex-Manchester City academy starlet is an asset to have in both boxes. Delap also works extremely hard off the ball and is a constant pest for the opposition defenders. At 22, he is still very young and has a lot of room to grow. This is exactly what the striker would be a smart fit at Stamford Bridge.

However, it might be hard for Chelsea to sign Delap when big guns like Arsenal, Liverpool and Man United remain firmly in the race.

I am Rohan Sengupta from one of the busiest cities in India, Mumbai. A Journalism graduate with a keen interest in sports, football is something I simply cannot live without and writing, discussing and analyzing the game is what I do 24*7.