Chelsea have confirmed the arrival of striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town in a deal worth £30 million. The 22-year-old has committed to a six-year stay at Stamford Bridge after the London club triggered a relegation clause in his contract following Ipswich’s drop from the Premier League.
The agreement includes an initial £20 million payment, with Ipswich securing a future sell-on percentage. Delap becomes one of the first additions under new head coach Enzo Maresca, who reportedly fended off interest from Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Everton to secure the striker’s signature.
Delap looks to the future after Ipswich spell
Delap described his move to Chelsea as a major opportunity, pointing to the ambition of the club and its current direction under Maresca. He expressed excitement about developing alongside a talented squad and contributing to future successes at Stamford Bridge.
The England Under-21 international had a standout season at Ipswich, netting 12 goals in 37 league matches. Delap arrived at Portman Road in 2024 in a transfer from Manchester City valued at around £20 million, following several loan stints at Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City.
He credited Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna and the supporters for creating an ideal environment for his growth, stating that his time at the club would remain a special memory. Before joining Manchester City’s academy, Delap started out with Derby County’s youth setup and is the son of former Republic of Ireland midfielder Rory Delap.
European challenge ahead for new Chelsea forward
Delap could miss this month’s European Under-21 Championship in Slovenia due to Chelsea’s involvement in the Club World Cup, taking place in the United States from 14 June to 13 July. With the extended tournament taking precedence, the striker is unlikely to join England’s youth squad.
Chelsea qualified for next season’s Champions League after winning the UEFA Conference League and finishing fourth in the Premier League. Despite the club’s overall success, they lacked consistency in front of goal from their center forwards. Cole Palmer led the team with 15 league goals, while Nicolas Jackson contributed 10, Christopher Nkunku added three, and youngster Marc Guiu did not score in his appearances.
Delap, who has one Champions League appearance from his time at Manchester City, will now look to make an impact on the biggest stages in European and international club football.
