Chelsea have officially completed the signing of highly-rated striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town. The 22-year-old is tied to a long-term contract that runs until 2031.
The former Manchester City academy product joins the Blues after an eye-catching Premier League season that earned him a Young Player of the Year nomination.
Delap lit up the 2024/25 campaign with 12 league goals in 37 appearances for newly-promoted Ipswich. He helped them punch above their weight in England’s top flight. His performances did not go unnoticed, and Chelsea moved quickly to secure a player who has been tipped for a bright future in English football.
Speaking after the transfer, Delap expressed excitement about his new chapter, noting both the ambition of the club and the influence of head coach Enzo Maresca. “This is the perfect environment for me to grow,” he said. “The squad, the manager, the direction – it all made my decision easy.”
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Interestingly, this move reunites Delap with Maresca, who coached him during his breakout year with Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad. Back then, the forward was a goal machine.
He racked up 24 goals in just 20 Premier League 2 appearances. The striker also scored on his senior debut in the League Cup.Though his time at City’s senior level was limited, Delap gained valuable first-team experience through successive loan spells.
These clubs include Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City. Notably, during the 2023/24 season at Hull, he found the net eight times.
Delap brings international experience to Stamford Bridge. He has featured across various age levels for England, with his most recent appearances coming for the Under-21s this year. His international exposure adds to the pedigree Chelsea are banking on.
The Blues are clearly investing in youth, and with Delap now on board, the future looks even brighter.
Tags: Chelsea, Liam Delap, Ipswich Town, Derby County, Manchester City, Premier League, #CFC, #ktbffh, #COYB.
