ππππ ππ ππ! Chelsea agree Β£30M deal to sign Liam Delap as new striker.
Chelsea have reached a full agreement to sign 21-year-old striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town in a deal worth Β£30 million, sources confirm. The Blues have decided to activate the release clause in Delapβs contract, securing one of Englandβs brightest young forwards in a major early move this summer.
Medical tests are expected to be completed within the coming days, with Ipswich Town already authorizing the process. Once completed, Delap will sign a long-term contract that keeps him at Stamford Bridge until at least June 2030.
New Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has been instrumental in pushing this move over the line. The Italian tactician, who worked with Delap during his time in Manchester Cityβs youth setup, sees the young striker as a perfect fit for his tactical system and a long-term solution to Chelseaβs issues in the number 9 role.
Delap, who netted 21 goals and provided 8 assists in all competitions last season, played a crucial role in Ipswich Townβs stunning return to the Premier League. His physical presence, work rate, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most sought-after young English forwardsβand now Chelsea have beaten off interest from multiple Premier League clubs to get the deal done.
Importantly, Manchester City have decided not to activate their buy-back clause, effectively giving Chelsea the green light to complete the signing without interference. This signals a strong belief from Chelsea in Delapβs long-term potential and an endorsement of the clubβs recruitment strategy under Maresca.
Delap is said to be excited by the prospect of playing Champions League football and reuniting with Maresca, who helped develop his game during key stages of his youth career. Personal terms have already been agreed, with the announcement expected soon once medicals are completed.
π΅ Chelsea fans, get readyβLiam Delap is set to light up Stamford Bridge.