Chelsea is once again gearing up for another busy summer transfer window. The Blues are striving to strengthen Enzo Maresca's squad by making additions all across the pitch, as they aim to contend for the title next season and also get ready for their return to the UEFA Champions League, having booked their place by finishing fourth.
A striker being their top priority, the Blues have worked hard to fend off competition from Manchester United, Newcastle, and Everton for Liam Delap. The two parties are believed to have come to an agreement and a move is only a matter of time, with Chelsea activating his release clause at Ipswich Town.
Although Chelsea has secured the signing of Delap, they might not stop here. There is a very real possibility that they might look to sign more strikers this summer.
Fabrizio Romano has now expressed his thoughts on the topic, believing the Blues will look to pre-sign Emanuel Emegha from Strasbourg. He said on his YouTube channel:
"My expectation is for Chelsea to pre-sign Emegha from parent club Strasbourg this summer for 2026. So close the deal now and let the player join in 2026. Chelsea are already planning for 2026."
Fabrizio Romano hints at two players Chelsea might sign after Liam Delap deal
Emegha had previously been linked with Chelsea, and he has had an excellent season for Strasbourg, scoring 14 goals in 27 Ligue 1 games under the management of Liam Rosenior. The plan is for him to continue his development there next season, before making a move to Stamford Bridge a year from now.
But wait, Chelsea's search for strikers doesn't end here. Romano suggested that there's a chance the club may try to recruit another striker this summer, so Delap might not be the only one joining the team. The journalist said:
"Chelsea remain interested in the situation of Ekitike at Eintracht, but at the moment, it’s not something advanced."
The transfer of Delap does not appear to have an impact on Hugo Ekitike's probable move, as Chelsea continues to keep an eye on him. However, this may raise the question of why the club want both Ekitike and Delap.
According to some experts, Ekitike can provide Enzo Maresca with 'tactical flexibility' as the 22-year-old can also play out wide. He has an impressive record of 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances in all competitions this season, so it's easy to envision him complementing Delap rather than simply competing for his spot on the team.
An interesting situation could emerge in the following days, since the Blues are being fairly active with their transfer strategy this summer. Despite having the incoming Delap and Nicolas Jackson in place, do not be surprised if they sign another striker.