Liam Delap has reportedly given the go-ahead for a move to Chelsea this summer, despite previously agreeing personal terms with Manchester United, according to reports.
The 22-year-old striker has become one of the most sought-after names in the transfer market following a standout season at Ipswich Town.
Despite the club’s immediate relegation back to the Championship after securing just four wins from 38 Premier League games, Delap impressed with a tally of 12 goals — a bright spark in an otherwise dismal campaign.
A product of Manchester City’s youth system, Delap spent five years with the Premier League champions before making the move to Portman Road. Now, he’s being tipped as one of the most promising young forwards in European football.
Much of the current transfer frenzy surrounding Delap is due to a modest £30 million release clause that was activated when Ipswich’s relegation became official. Both Chelsea and Manchester United have expressed their willingness to trigger the clause and have been in advanced discussions over personal terms.
Reports last week suggested that Delap had reached a verbal agreement with United, who were keen to beat the competition after a turbulent season. However, despite the initial nod to the Red Devils, Delap delayed his final decision.
Now, Chelsea have reportedly stolen a march on their rivals. With Champions League football secured after a dramatic final-day leap to fourth place under new manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues have boosted their pull in the transfer market. By contrast, Manchester United ended a forgettable season in 15th place, missing out on European qualification altogether after a Europa League final loss.
Newcastle United and Everton also explored the possibility of signing the England U21 international — son of former Stoke City player Rory Delap — but the youngster appears to have made up his mind.
If the deal goes through, Delap will face stiff competition from current Chelsea frontman Nicolas Jackson as he looks to establish himself in Maresca’s new-look squad at Stamford Bridge.