Despite all the attacking positives of Chelsea’s first pre-season friendly under Xabi Alonso, Liam Delap stood out for all the wrong reasons.
Delap was named in the starting side for the 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers, however was unable to get on the scoresheet and was replaced by Joao Pedro, who scored a quickfire hat-trick.
New addition Dastan Satpayev also found the net in his first appearance, making the Englishman’s struggles stand out even more.
Who was the BEST and WORST performer in Xabi Alonso’s first televised game as Chelsea boss?👀
Chelsea player ratings vs Western Sydney Wanderers
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Liam Delap’s agents talking to Premier League clubs about transfer
Despite spending just one year at Stamford Bridge so far, there have already been rumours linking the striker away from the club.
As per Simon Phillips, there are five Premier League clubs interested in a move for Delap, and his agents are in talks with a number of those over a possible switch.
Western Sydney Wanderers v Chelsea FC: Sydney Super Cup
Photo by Ayush Kumar/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
He said on his Substack: “SPTC Sources understand Delap is a target for Nottingham Forest, Everton, and Fulham so far this summer, and he is also being considered by his former club Ipswich Town, and liked by Newcastle United.
“His agents are currently in talks with at least three of these clubs discussing a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer.”
Just one Premier League goal last season was not enough for anyone to be won over by Delap, and Alonso’s first look at him out in Sydney will not have improved much either.
How many Premier League goals will Joao Pedro score next season? 🔮
A hat-trick in his first game under Alonso!
While Delap may have been expecting to be battling another young striker for his place in the side, it looks as if he could be dropping out for one of the oldest options in the Premier League.
Chelsea’s deal to sign Danny Welbeck has almost been complete. Only Pedro scored more goals from the current Blues side than Welbeck last season.
The Brighton man will be bringing a wealth of experience with him to West London, and likely continue his role of being a mentor for Pedro that he did at the Amex.
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