Chelsea Set to Finalize Liam Delap Signing Within 24 Hours

Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is close to completing his move to Chelsea. He is expected to sign with Chelsea soon, after getting approval for medical tests.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea have beaten several Premier League rivals to sign 22-year-old forward Delap. The Ipswich Town striker has been allowed to take medical tests before moving to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are set to activate a £30 million release clause in Delap’s contract after Ipswich were relegated from the Premier League.

Manchester City included a 30% sell-on clause when they sold Delap to Ipswich, so they will earn money from this deal. City also had a £40 million buy-back option, but have decided not to activate it, paving the way for Chelsea to complete the signing.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Delap is joining Chelsea amid strong interest from Manchester United, Newcastle United and Everton. Chelsea’s qualification for next season’s Champions League has been cited as a probable reason for Delap’s decision to pick the club.

Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League this season despite having the youngest squad in the history of the competition. The Blues also recently won the Conference League title.

Next up for Chelsea is the FIFA Club World Cup, where Delap will be available to feature.

DELAP’S IMPRESSIVE RECORD

Despite Ipswich Town losing their fight to stay in the Premier League, Delap impressed with 12 goals in 37 appearances. The 22-year-old forward has previously played under Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca during his time at Manchester City.

Delap scored 27 goals in 22 games for City’s Under-21 side in the 2020-21 season when Maresca was his manager, marking the beginning of a successful relationship.

WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

Delap represents another smart addition for Chelsea as they continue to build a young, talented squad. The forward’s arrival will create competition in Chelsea’s frontline and possibly even see him form a front two with former City youth team-mate Palmer, who has been the Blues’ player of the season in 2023-24.

With Champions League football secured for next season and the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, Chelsea are looking to strengthen their squad across multiple positions. The £30 million fee for Delap is widely viewed as excellent value for a 22-year-old striker who has already proven himself in the Premier League.

Delap is now set to complete his medical and sign with Chelsea, boosting their chances of success next season.