Liam Delap is reportedly keen to stay at Chelsea for at least another season as he tries to prove his doubters wrong after a frustrating debut season. But the 23-year-old striker is ready to fight for his place in west London rather than look for a way out.
However, Delap’s pledges seem to be more than idle words, with reports suggesting he has made up his mind to buy a house in the local area to emphasise his long-term plans. That says a lot about a player whose first year in the capital has been more characterised by injury and frustration than goals.
Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town in the summer of 2025 for £30m, signed until 2031 and has five years to work hard and no pressure to walk away. The Englishman managed just one Premier League goal during a two-month injury layoff at the start of the campaign, with Joao Pedro’s quick emergence leaving him limited. The ex-Manchester City starlet has already rejected a proposed move to Strasbourg, while Newcastle United and Everton are monitoring his situation.
Chelsea Eye Victor Osimhen With Xabi Alonso Reshaping Attack
Delap’s decision to stay comes as Chelsea prepare for a major overhaul under new manager Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard has been officially confirmed to start his four-year contract from July 1, 2026, having been appointed to lead the next chapter of the club’s journey. His biggest priority is thought to be a new striker, with Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen understood to be the top target.
The Nigeria international is said to be eager to play in the top leagues in Europe once again, and the arrival of Alonso is believed to be a factor that could persuade him to Stamford Bridge. Such a signing would be a drastic departure from Chelsea’s recent policy of signing younger, less established talent. But for Delap, the search for a proven goalscorer would only push his hopes of regular minutes further down the list.
As if that wasn’t enough, Joao Pedro had a stunning first season with 23 goals and nine assists in all competitions, securing his place as one of Alonso’s untouchables despite interest from Barcelona. Chelsea’s failure to qualify for both the Champions League and Europa League means Delap has a herculean task ahead of him to climb the pecking order. The summer ahead therefore looms as the most important of his young career as he bids to win over a demanding new boss.