Everton Lead Chase for Chelsea Outcast Liam Delap
Everton have emerged as frontrunners to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap this summer, as the 23-year-old looks set to end a miserable year at Stamford Bridge. According to multiple reports, the Toffees, along with Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham, are monitoring the former Ipswich Town forward’s situation, with Chelsea valuing him at between £35m and £40m.
Delap joined Chelsea last summer for a reported £30m after a standout Premier League campaign with Ipswich, but his debut season in west London proved disastrous. The England under-21 international managed just one goal in 28 league appearances and another in 13 cup outings, leading new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso to approve his departure just 12 months after his arrival.
Everton manager David Moyes has been a long-time admirer of Delap, having held face-to-face talks with the forward last year. The Toffees were close to signing him before he chose Chelsea, and Moyes is now confident he can revive the striker's career at Goodison Park. However, they face stiff competition, with Leeds and Nottingham Forest also reportedly holding serious interest, while Fulham and Newcastle have been in contact with Delap's representatives.
A Season to Forget in West London
Delap’s move to Chelsea was seen as a major coup at the time, with the striker rejecting approaches from Manchester United, Liverpool, and Newcastle. Yet the 23-year-old never settled in Xabi Alonso’s system, struggling for fitness and confidence. He was often overshadowed by Joao Pedro, who arrived from Brighton the same summer and became the club’s first-choice striker.
Chelsea, who have been active in the transfer market, are eager to offload Delap as they continue to balance the books. The club raised nearly £300m in player sales last season and have already banked around £120m this summer. With Danny Welbeck expected to join from Brighton and Emmanuel Emegha set to be integrated into the squad, Delap’s exit is imminent.
Why This Matters for Everton’s Ambitions
Everton are in dire need of attacking reinforcements after a season in which they finished mid-table but consistently struggled for goals. The Toffees have been linked with exits for Beto and Thierno Barry, while star attacker Iliman Ndiaye has attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League. Adding a proven Premier League striker is a priority for Moyes, who wants to push for European qualification next term.
Delap’s numbers at Ipswich in 2024-25 – 12 goals in 37 Premier League games – are a reminder of his potential. He was a rare bright spot in a relegated Tractor Boys side, and his physical, old-school style fits Moyes’ preferred template. However, his torrid year at Chelsea raises questions about his mentality and ability to handle pressure at a big club.
Moyes has a strong track record of developing young English talent, which could prove pivotal. The Scot has previously revitalised careers at West Ham and Manchester United, and he will be confident he can get the best out of Delap. Yet the striker’s confidence is clearly low after a season where he was repeatedly benched and criticised.
Perspective: A High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble for the Toffees
Delap’s situation is a fascinating case study in transfer-market risk. At £35m-£40m, he is not cheap, and his performances at Chelsea suggest he might not be ready for a top-six club. But for a team like Everton, who can offer regular first-team football and a manager that suits his style, he could rediscover his form.
The race for Delap also highlights the changing dynamics of the Premier League’s striker market. With elite forwards becoming increasingly unaffordable, clubs are turning to reclamation projects. If Delap succeeds at Everton, it will be a major coup; if he fails, it will be another costly gamble for a club with limited financial wiggle room.
For Delap, this summer represents a crucial chance to reset his career. A move back to a club where he is the focal point could restore his reputation. But with Leeds, Forest, and Fulham all circling, the next few weeks will be decisive. As the window enters its final month, expect more twists in this saga.
Everton are also monitoring other attacking targets, but they may need to sell before they can buy. With the club’s new stadium completed, manager David Moyes faces a crucial season, and securing a proven goalscorer is essential.
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