Adebayo Akinfenwa was caught off guard by Arsenal’s inability to sign Liam Delap, who is joining Chelsea in a £30 million deal. In the former striker’s view, Delap is like Diego Costa and will do well at Stamford Bridge.
Akinfenwa said on talkSPORT:
“I think he’s got that Diego Costa sort of vibe about him, in regards to you’re going to know he’s there. So I think it’s very, very good business. I think £30m for Delap is very good business.”
Akinfenwa wondered why Arsenal never signed Delap, especially as a striker was what they required. He further added:
“When you’ve got somebody who, you’re talking about potential – they’re talking about being a Harry Kane replacement for England, about a proper No.9, I don’t understand how Arsenal didn’t buy.”
Delap, 22, scored 12 Premier League goals for Ipswich Town in the last season despite the club’s relegation. His four-year stint at Ipswich impressed a queue of top clubs, with Manchester United and Newcastle United among them.
He actually ended up at Stamford Bridge because it means him getting to work with boss Enzo Maresca under whom he played for at Manchester City.
Chelsea’s Summer Transfer Targets
After reviewing Liam Delap’s signing, Chelsea are now seeking to sign a number of players in preparation for the new season. The club are bidding for Lazio defender Mario Gila, and are reportedly offering a guaranteed €35 million down payment for his services.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is also being targeted, though Everton value him at £70 million. Meanwhile, the Blues are in pursuit of Ajax utility centre-back Jorrel Hato, and negotiations may begin shortly.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists last season, and is valued at €100 million. Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, who scored 54 goals in 52 games, is also being targeted, and could be signed at £60 million. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is also under consideration.