The summer transfer window is heating up, and young striker Liam Delap is at the center of a tug-of-war between some of England’s biggest clubs.
At just 22 years old, Delap seems set to make a big step in his career, with Chelsea now appearing to be his preferred destination.
Chelsea Leads the Race to Sign Delap from Ipswich Town
Despite strong bids from Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Everton, it’s Chelsea who have moved ahead in talks to secure Delap’s signature.
The Stamford Bridge club is working hard to finalize a £30 million deal with Ipswich Town, which could see the striker join their squad ahead of next season.
Chelsea has not only been negotiating over Delap’s release clause but is also exploring the possibility of sending one of their forwards on loan to Ipswich as part of the arrangement.
This back-and-forth shows how serious both clubs are about making the transfer happen.
Familiar Faces at Chelsea Could Seal the Deal
One big selling point for Delap is Chelsea’s involvement in the Champions League next season, providing him a platform to shine on Europe’s biggest stage.
Plus, there’s a familiar environment waiting for him — coach Enzo Maresca and winger Cole Palmer have both worked closely with Delap before during their time together at Manchester City.
Maresca has been particularly vocal about Delap’s talent, describing him as a ‘fantastic’ striker, which could help ease the transition for Delap at his new club.
Why Manchester United’s Interest May Have Faded
Earlier in the transfer saga, Manchester United appeared keen to snap up Delap alongside new signing Matheus Cunha.
However, ongoing doubts and uncertainty about United’s future direction seem to have cooled their chances, tipping the balance toward Chelsea.
Delap’s Journey from Manchester City to Ipswich
Liam Delap’s career started at Manchester City, where he made a handful of first-team appearances before moving to Ipswich Town last July.
That deal was worth an initial £15 million, with an additional £5 million set to follow if Ipswich earned promotion to the Premier League.
While Ipswich struggled last season and faced relegation, Delap himself had a breakthrough year, managing to score 12 goals in the Premier League and showing flashes of his potential.
Loan Spells Shaped Delap’s Development
Before making his mark at Ipswich, Delap spent time on loan in the Championship with Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City over the past two seasons.
Across 70 matches during those loan spells, he found the back of the net 12 times, gaining valuable experience in England’s second tier.
Ipswich Boss Confirms Delap’s Likely Departure
Looking ahead, Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has suggested that Delap’s exit from the club this summer is increasingly probable.
He acknowledged the intense interest surrounding the young forward, saying almost every club in the league wants him, and hinted that the negotiations are still ongoing.
“Nothing is sorted or completed just yet, but it looks more likely than not that he will move on this summer,” McKenna said. “That process will take its course.”
What’s Next for Delap and Ipswich?
Delap is also preparing for a big international opportunity, as he is set to be named in Lee Carsley’s squad for the European Under-21 Championships taking place in Slovakia next month.
While that tournament approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see where his club future lands.