Chelsea are reportedly on the brink of completing the signing of highly-rated young striker, Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, with the deal expected to be sealed within the next 24 hours.
According to football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have agreed to trigger the £30 million release clause in Delap’s contract, beating off competition and ending speculation of a possible return to Manchester City.
In a statement shared on his official X account, Romano revealed, “Liam Delap to Chelsea, here we go! Agreement in place as £30m release clause will be triggered.
“Manchester City will not use buy back clause and Delap has already accepted Chelsea project.
“Long term deal, Maresca’s impact + UCL football key. Delap will join #CFC.”
The 21-year-old striker had a breakthrough season at Ipswich Town during the 2023/24 Premier League campaign, scoring 12 goals in 37 appearances under manager Kieran McKenna.
His form drew attention from several top clubs, but it is Chelsea who have moved decisively to secure his signature.
Romano added that Delap is already undergoing the final steps before completing the move “Liam Delap will sign his Chelsea contract in the next 24 hours as Ipswich Town has now authorized medical tests.
“Man City will get 30% of the deal as they had sell-on clause included in agreement with Ipswich Town.
“Buy back clause won’t be activated, Delap will join Chelsea.”
Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Delap at Manchester City’s youth level, is believed to have played a significant role in attracting the player to Stamford Bridge.
The project Maresca is building at Chelsea, along with the allure of Champions League football, were key factors in Delap’s decision.
The transfer also highlights Manchester City’s long-term planning, as they included both a sell-on clause and a buy-back option when Delap moved to Ipswich.
However, City have chosen not to re-sign him, and will instead collect 30% of the £30 million fee due to the sell-on arrangement.
With Delap’s move nearly finalized, Chelsea are continuing to show strong intent in the transfer market as they reshape their squad around young talent and a dynamic playing style under Maresca’s leadership.
The deal represents a major opportunity for Delap to step up to one of England’s biggest clubs and showcase his potential on the European stage.
