Chelsea are expected to go big in the transfer market this summer for one position in particular to solve a repetitive problem that has plagued them for the last couple of seasons.
The Blues are likely to bring in at least one new striker this season, with them feeling the effects of having just Nicolas Jackson as a recognised first team option in that position.
While Jackson has returned to training, he has not been fit for two months now, and Enzo Maresca has had to get creative when it comes to his squad selection in recent weeks.
One option Chelsea have been strongly linked with this season is Liam Delap, who is enjoying an excellent first campaign as a regular in the Premier League.
Liam Delap 24/25 PL stats Total
Games 28
Goals 10
Assists 2
Delap is keen on joining Chelsea, with him feeling confident that he can break into the starting side as soon as he joins the club.
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
Chelsea target Liam Delap’s price tag revealed
However, numerous sides are interested in Delap, and a deal is likely to be done very early in the summer window.
The fact that Ipswich Town look likely to be relegated from the Premier League will no doubt appeal to top sides, with them hoping that he could be available for a more attractive fee.
According to the Mail Online, the striker will be available for a fee of around £40m if his side are relegated as part of a release clause included in his contract.
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Manchester City are one of the sides who are interested in signing Delap, with him coming through their academy alongside the likes of Cole Palmer.
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Enzo Maresca’s thoughts on Liam Delap
It looks likely that Maresca will remain in the job no matter where Chelsea finish this season, even if they miss out on their goal of qualifying for the Champions League.
This means he is likely to get a say in the players who are brought in during the summer transfer window, and if that is the case the signing of Delap looks very plausible.
The manager is a huge admirer of the striker, and Maresca has brought Delap up in conversations with the club about the direction they should go in.
There are a number of other options on Chelsea’s radar too. The likes of Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko all remain on the list of potential targets in what will be a hectic summer at Stamford Bridge.