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Liam Delap transfer: Chelsea complete £30m deal for Ipswich striker who reunites with Cole Palmer
Chelsea have confirmed the signing of highly-rated striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for £30 million, activating the 22-year-old’s release clause following the Tractor Boys’ relegation from the Premier League. Delap has penned a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge that runs until 2031.
The Blues moved swiftly to secure Delap’s signature, beating off strong competition from Manchester United and Newcastle United. The signing marks another strategic addition to Enzo Maresca’s squad, with the club looking to bolster its attacking depth and provide support and competition for leading striker Nicolas Jackson.
Despite Ipswich’s drop to the Championship, Delap impressed with 12 goals during the campaign, showcasing his potential and resilience in a struggling side. Chelsea identified the young forward as the ideal fit — both in terms of playing profile and financial structure — for their long-term project.
Sources understand that Delap chose Chelsea over other suitors due to Enzo Maresca’s tactical philosophy, the talent within the squad, and a firm belief in the club’s ambitions to return to the pinnacle of English and European football.
His arrival aligns with the Blues’ focus on recruiting young, hungry players with high ceilings and a willingness to grow under a progressive coaching regime.
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In his first interview with Chelsea’s media team, Delap said:
“I understand the stature of this club and can see the trajectory it’s on with these players and the head coach. It’s going to be an incredible place for me to develop, and I hope to achieve amazing things here and help the club win more trophies.”
He continued:
“I came here to win. Everyone I spoke to at the club is focused on getting Chelsea back to the top. With the quality we have and the hunger within this group, I believe we can achieve that. The ambition to return Chelsea to where it belongs — that’s the driving force for me.”
Delap becomes Chelsea’s latest addition in what is shaping up to be an ambitious and calculated summer rebuild under Maresca’s watch.
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