Photo by Joseph Dinesh Daniel/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Photo by Joseph Dinesh Daniel/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
It has become clear that Liam Delap is not in Xabi Alonso’s plans at Chelsea for the new season, however the Blues are facing a real test to actually find a new club for him.
After being signed more than 12 months ago, Delap has just three Chelsea goals to his name in all competitions, with one of those coming in the Premier League.
The difference in output between himself and Joao Pedro is staggering, with the Brazilian the clear leading option to start the season up front.
Pedro Neto of Chelsea
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Chelsea’s Liam Delap blow as Ipswich chase different striker
Delap finds himself behind Nicolas Jackson and Danny Welbeck in the pecking order, and is up for sale this month if they can find a suitor for him.
Ipswich Town have on paper been a great option for the Englishman, given the fact he made his name as a Premier League player during the 2024/25 campaign.
Chelsea FC Training Session
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However, the newly-promoted side are currently targeting another striker. L’Equipe have reported they are pushing to sign Breel Embolo after he caught the eye at the World Cup.
The two strikers are from a similar mould, and signing Embolo would almost certainly rule them out of the race to sign Delap.
After getting big-name signings such as Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix and Marco Palestra through the door, player sales are now the big priority before the transfer window ends.
Todd Boehly and Mark Walter graphic
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Como were reported to be pushing to sign the striker on loan, giving him an opportunity to work alongside Cesc Fabregas in Italy.
However, Chelsea asked for an excessive loan fee, putting that deal currently on the back burner.
Welbeck will provide an experienced head to help the likes of Pedro get even better, whilst also having a track record for scoring goals in the Premier League.
While there are still reports linking Jackson with a move away from the squad, Xabi Alonso has been prepared to give the Senegal international a chance in pre-season, and this may continue into the new campaign.