As per TEAMtalk, Chelsea have opened talks with Ipswich Town to acquire rising star striker Liam Delap, showcasing their determination to bolster their attacking lineup during the January transfer window. The 21-year-old English forward's stellar performances this season have caught the London club's attention, leading them to make initial contact.
Manager Enzo Maresca's team, currently occupying second place in the Premier League standings, find themselves with limited options up front. Nicolas Jackson stands as their sole natural striker, prompting the club to pursue Delap, who moved to Ipswich Town from Manchester City last summer for £20 million.
The young forward has proven his worth with six goals in 16 appearances, displaying attributes reminiscent of Chelsea's former striking heroes Didier Drogba and Diego Costa.
Ipswich face tough choices
Kieran McKenna, Ipswich Town's manager, confronts a difficult decision regarding his key striker amid the club's fight to avoid relegation. Manchester City holds a 20% sell-on clause in Delap's contract, making any potential transfer more financially intricate for interested parties.
Despite showing interest in a Chelsea move, Delap maintains his commitment to Ipswich's Premier League survival campaign. The situation has drawn attention from Italian powerhouse Juventus, who have dispatched scouts to evaluate the striker as a potential replacement for Dusan Vlahovic.
A natural fit for Chelsea
At Stamford Bridge, Delap's arrival could provide the attacking spark the team needs. His technical prowess and physical style position him as a strong competitor to challenge Jackson for the starting role.
Such a move might reduce playing opportunities for Spanish striker Marc Guiu, who has found consistent game time hard to come by since joining in the summer.
The Blues' quest to find a striker capable of matching the impact of club legends Drogba and Costa might end with Delap, whose Premier League displays have highlighted his ability to compete amongst England's elite.
The upcoming January window's developments will largely depend on Ipswich's willingness to release their valuable striker midway through their survival campaign.