A highly regarded forward is eager to join Chelsea after the club initiated contact with his representatives regarding a potential move in January.
Despite Nicolas Jackson’s impressive form, Chelsea is still looking to bolster their striker options. Enzo Maresca’s side is currently the Premier League’s top scorer and has been unstoppable offensively since the start of the 2024/2025 season. However, they remain on the lookout for another prolific forward.
Jackson’s recent goal against Brentford brought his tally to nine goals from 16 appearances this season, and he has continued to impress under Maresca. Christopher Nkunku has also contributed with goals off the bench, but Chelsea is reportedly still searching for another goal-scorer as 2025 approaches.
Chelsea’s targets reportedly include Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen, and Victor Boniface, though each would come with a hefty price tag. A more attainable option could be Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who has been performing well in the Premier League, scoring six goals and earning several Man of the Match awards.
Delap, formerly of Manchester City, has caught the attention of Chelsea, and it’s believed the club has already initiated talks with Ipswich and his agents. While Ipswich is reluctant to lose their star player mid-season, Delap’s price tag stands at around £42 million, which Chelsea may find feasible. However, Manchester City holds a £20 million buy-back clause.
Reports indicate that Delap is interested in moving to Chelsea, although he remains focused on helping Ipswich avoid relegation. His agents have held discussions with the club, and the groundwork for a potential deal appears to be in motion. Delap’s homegrown status and rising profile in the top flight make him an appealing target for Chelsea, and Maresca is already familiar with him from their time together at Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola once praised Delap’s potential, stating, “He has a special quality. He is a different type of striker. The goal is offside, but he is there. I am happy for him.”
