Chelsea lead race to sign Ipswich's Delap

 

Chelsea lead race to sign Ipswich's Delap

Chelsea have emerged as the frontrunners to secure the signature of Ipswich Town’s 22-year-old striker Liam Delap, who has a £30m release clause triggered by Ipswich’s relegation to the Championship. Delap, who scored 12 goals in 32 Premier League starts last season, is reportedly keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, drawn by Chelsea’s ambitious project and their qualification for the Champions League. The Blues’ recent UEFA Conference League triumph further bolsters their appeal. Despite interest from Manchester United, Newcastle United, Everton, and Nottingham Forest, Chelsea’s position at the top of the race highlights their intent to strengthen their attacking options, with Delap viewed as a potential long-term No. 9.

Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna has acknowledged Delap’s permission to explore transfer options, signaling the club’s preparedness for his potential departure. Manchester City, Delap’s former club, retain a buy-back option but are unlikely to activate it, leaving the door open for Chelsea to finalize a deal. In a strategic move, Ipswich are eyeing a loan deal for Chelsea’s young striker Marc Guiu as a possible replacement, which could facilitate negotiations between the clubs.

Delap’s preference for Chelsea underscores the club’s pulling power in the transfer market, even amidst competition from other Premier League heavyweights. His blend of pace, physicality, and clinical finishing makes him an attractive prospect for Enzo Maresca’s side, which is looking to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. As talks progress, Chelsea fans will be eager to see if Delap can become the focal point of their attack, while Ipswich brace for life in the Championship without their star forward.

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