Chelsea Secure £30m Deal for Ipswich’s Liam Delap After Beating Premier League Rivals

Chelsea Set to Sign Liam Delap in £30m Deal After Beating Premier League Rivals
By Kieran Gill and James Cohen | Updated: 17:57 BST, 29 May 2025

Chelsea have secured a deal to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap by triggering his £30million release clause, fending off competition from Manchester United, Newcastle, and Everton. The 22-year-old is poised to join the Europa Conference League winners this summer.

Delap has opted for Chelsea after a breakthrough season with Ipswich, scoring 12 Premier League goals.

Key Factors in Delap’s Decision

Delap’s preference for Chelsea stems from his prior connections with head coach Enzo Maresca and star midfielder Cole Palmer, both of whom worked with him at Manchester City. Maresca’s tactical familiarity and Chelsea’s Champions League status reportedly swayed the striker’s decision. Manchester United had pushed hard for his signature but faced hurdles due to ongoing uncertainty around their project under Erik ten Hag.

Maresca’s existing rapport with Delap from their Manchester City days played a pivotal role.

Deal Structure and Future Moves

Chelsea finalized discussions with Ipswich earlier this week, agreeing to meet the £30m clause with no附加条件. The clubs also explored a potential loan move for Chelsea’s young forward Marc Guiu to Ipswich, though this remains a separate transaction.

Delap joined Ipswich from Manchester City in July 2024 for £15m (rising to £20m with promotion). Despite Ipswich’s relegation, his 12-goal Premier League campaign marked a career-best performance. Previous loan spells at Stoke, Preston, and Hull saw him net 12 goals in 70 Championship appearances.

Impact on Chelsea’s Transfer Plans

Chelsea’s pursuit of Delap likely ends their interest in Brighton’s João Pedro, as the club shifts focus to integrating the young striker. Delap’s physicality and proven Premier League pedigree align with Maresca’s vision for Chelsea’s attack.

Manchester United’s late push for Delap fell short amid broader organizational uncertainties.

What’s Next for Delap?

Delap will join pre-season training with Chelsea in July, aiming to secure a starting role alongside Palmer and Nicolas Jackson. His arrival adds depth to a squad balancing domestic and European commitments. For Ipswich, the £30m windfall provides crucial funds to rebuild after relegation.

Final Words
Chelsea’s swift move underscores their strategy of targeting young, high-potential stars. Delap’s blend of youth and experience positions him as a key piece in Maresca’s evolving project at Stamford Bridge.

Stay tuned for more updates on summer transfers and analysis on It’s All Kicking Off!, available now on Daily Mail Podcasts.

Images: Daily Mail Sport

Share your thoughts on Delap’s move in the comments below.

(Word count: 640)