Liam Delap sealed a move to Chelsea following Ipswich’s relegation from the Premier League, earlier this month, and now he has opened up on why he chose the Blues.
The 22-year-old caught the eye with 12 goals in 37 top-flight appearances last term, sparking a transfer race among several Premier League clubs, thanks in part to a £30million release clause.
Manchester United, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Everton were among those vying for his signature, with Manchester City, Delap’s former club, also retaining a buy-back clause.
But it was Chelsea who ultimately secured the striker, and speaking ahead of the Club World Cup clash with ES Tunis, Delap explained what convinced him to make the switch.
“You never know if it is going to be the right decision but you’ve just got to go with your gut and hope it works out,” he said.
“You’ve got to take your time. I took a few days to speak to people and decide my future.”
A major factor in Delap’s decision was the opportunity to reunite with familiar faces. Among them is Cole Palmer, who previously played alongside Delap at Manchester City.
Liam Delap is the latest to take on the number 9 shirt at Chelsea! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/h74Esv1YGC
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 6, 2025
“I asked him what I needed to ask him, he told me what I needed to know. But I don’t like too much information. Ultimately it was my decision so I kind of just want my head to be clear,” Delap added.
Another familiar face is Enzo Maresca, who worked with Delap during their time at Manchester City. The striker flourished under Maresca’s guidance in the Under-21 setup, scoring 20 goals and winning PL2 Player of the Season as City lifted the 2020-21 title.
“I’ve got a good relationship with the manager,” Delap said.
“I know how he plays. I’ve played in this system before. It’s very similar now but with little tweaks. I know a lot of the players here and the project of the club, how they see the future. That’s what excited me.”
Though Manchester United were previously seen as frontrunners, their failure to qualify for Europe worked against them. Chelsea’s qualification for the Champions League offered additional appeal.
“It wasn’t the be all and end all because I was also looking towards future seasons but also it helps,” Delap admitted.
