Overview
- Multiple reports this week say Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for 23-year-old striker Liam Delap after a disappointing 2025–26 season that produced two goals in 40 appearances.
- Former scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Chelsea see Delap as a sellable asset whose departure would raise funds and free a squad spot ahead of Alonso’s rebuild.
- Everton are repeatedly named by pundits and outlets as the front-runner for Delap because his physical, channel-running style is viewed as a better tactical fit for Goodison Park.
- Delap can still change the club’s plan by earning a place in Xabi Alonso’s team during pre-season but sources say a summer transfer looks likely if he fails to impress.
- The move would follow Delap’s summer 2025 transfer from Ipswich that involved a reported ~£30m release clause and would form part of a wider Chelsea clear-out and recruitment drive next month.