Liverpool host Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Saturday afternoon after drawing 2-2 with Newcastle United in their Premier League season opener.
Forest, meanwhile, suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Leeds United. Nottingham Forest are keen to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes.
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According to talkSPORT, they are closing in on the signing of Liam Delap. Everton and Leeds United have also held interest in the Chelsea striker, but Forest are now favourites to secure his signature.
Delap is keen on a move to the City Ground after being told he does not have a future at Chelsea. The Blues are believed to value the 23-year-old at around £50million.
Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town for £30million last summer following Ipswich Town’s relegation from the Premier League.
However, the former England Under-21 international scored just once in 28 league appearances for Chelsea last season.
Delap was not named in Chelsea’s matchday squad for their season opener against Fulham on Monday night, further fuelling speculation over his future.
The 23-year-old is now among several Chelsea forwards who could leave this summer, despite having a contract until 2031. The Blues are also willing to listen to offers for Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu.
Delap’s situation became clearer after he was stripped of the No.9 shirt, with Joao Pedro taking the number ahead of the new season. Delap has since been handed the No.12 shirt.
The striker’s preference is to remain in the Premier League if he leaves Chelsea, with Nottingham Forest and Everton among the clubs interested.
Serie A side Como have also shown an interest. Cesc Fabregas’ Como will compete in the Champions League this season after finishing fourth in Serie A last term.
Forest have allowed former Liverpool striker Taiwo Awoniyi to leave, with the Nigerian joining newly promoted Coventry City.
Chris Wood and Igor Jesus remain at the City Ground, while Arnaud Kalimuendo has returned from his loan spell with Eintracht Frankfurt.
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