Maresca's new man? Chelsea 'open initial talks' for Premier League attacker
Maresca's new man? Chelsea 'open initial talks' for Premier League attacker
Chelsea have reportedly entered talks with Ipswich Town over the signing of in-form striker Liam Delap.
The England Under-21 international has made an impressive start to the 2024-25 campaign, in which he is enjoying a first prolonged taste of Premier League action.
Despite featuring for a side struggling near the foot of the top-flight standings, Delap has bagged six goals and provided one assist during his first 15 matches.
It was reported at the end of November that a number of Premier League clubs were exploring the possibility of signing the towering marksman, including Arsenal and Chelsea.
Delap earned a move to Ipswich from Manchester City courtesy of his impressive performances in the Championship last season, when he scored eight goals for Hull City.
Liam Delap of Ipswich Town celebrates his goal to make it 3-3 during his side's Premier League match against Brentford, on October 26, 2024
Liam Delap of Ipswich Town celebrates his goal to make it 3-3 during his side's Premier League match against Brentford, on October 26, 2024
© Imago
Chelsea 'open talks' with Ipswich over Delap deal
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea have taken the next step in their possible pursuit of Ipswich star Delap during the next calendar year.
The report claims that the Blues have made initial contact with the newly-promoted Tractor Boys regarding a swoop for the promising 21-year-old.
It is understood that Chelsea and Ipswich have opened talks, with the former looking to find out the availability of the striker and a potential price tag.
It is believed that the acquisition of a new centre-forward is of major importance to Enzo Maresca's side in 2025, despite the improved displays of Nicolas Jackson compared to his debut campaign in England.
However, Ipswich are supposedly unwilling to sell Delap in the New Year as they fight for Premier League survival, meaning that Chelsea will have to wait until the summer to get the transfer completed.
Ipswich Town head coach Kieran McKenna on July 27, 2024
Ipswich Town head coach Kieran McKenna on July 27, 2024
© Imago
Delap delight for Ipswich
Back in the Premier League for the first time in two decades, Ipswich would have feared sinking under the pressure at England's top table this season.
However, smart summer additions, such as the move for Delap, seem to have given Kieran McKenna's men a fighting chance of avoiding the drop.
Ipswich are currently occupying 18th position in the Premier League, four points behind Crystal Palace in the relative safety of 17th spot.