David Moyes hoped to tempt the 22-year-old to Everton and held talks with the forward in the final weeks of the season
Liam Delap walks out of the tunnel prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group D match between CR Flamengo and Chelsea FC. Photo by Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Liam Delap walks out of the tunnel prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group D match between CR Flamengo and Chelsea FC. Photo by Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Liam Delap’s relationships with Cole Palmer and Enzo Maresca were influential in his decision to join Chelsea. The striker, who was courted by Everton among others, knew both from his time in the Manchester City academy.
The 22-year-old spoke to Palmer - whose success at Stamford Bridge he hopes to replicate - while weighing up his options. The prospect of playing in the Champions League was also a factor, the former Ipswich Town forward said.
Delap, speaking while out in the USA for the Club World Cup, told BBC Sport: "You never know if it is going to be the right decision but you've just got to go with your gut and hope it works out. You've got to take your time. I took a few days to speak to people and decide my future."
Delap spoke with Everton at the end of the season as David Moyes sought to lure him to Merseyside. The relegation release clause of £30m that was triggered by Ipswich’s return to the Championship provided the Blues with the opportunity to battle for his signature.
A chat with Moyes was just one of many conversations that formed part of Delap’s deliberations though.
Of talks with his former Man City academy teammate Palmer, he said: “I asked him what I needed to ask him, he told me what I needed to know. But I don't like too much information. Ultimately it was my decision so I kind of just want my head to be clear."
Delap said he hoped to replicate the success Palmer has enjoyed since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, adding: "I think we both had similar positions and he's gone and smashed it so hopefully I can also."
While working under Maresca at the Etihad, Delap won the PL2 player of the year on the way to the U21s title. That bond was also a feature of his decision. He added: "I've got a good relationship with the manager. I know how he plays. I've played in this system before. It's very similar now but with little tweaks. I know a lot of the players here and the project of the club, how they see the future. That's what excited me."