Chelsea signed English striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town on Wednesday for a reported £30 million ($41 million), beating off competition from Premier League rivals.
The 22-year-old netted 12 Premier League goals during his only season at Portman Road but was unable to prevent Ipswich’s immediate relegation back to the Championship.
Manchester United and Everton were also reportedly ready to trigger the buyout clause in the England under-21 international contract, but Chelsea emerged victorious in the race for the former Manchester City forward. The signing boosts Chelsea’s attacking options ahead of the Club World Cup in the United States, set to begin later this month.
“I understand the stature of this club and can see the trajectory it is on with these players and the head coach,” Delap said in a Chelsea statement after signing a six-year contract.
“It’s going to be an incredible place for me to develop, and I hope to achieve amazing things here and help the club win more trophies.”
Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League last season, securing a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Under manager Enzo Maresca, they also claimed the Conference League title last week with a 4-1 victory over Real Betis.
Despite a strong finish to the campaign, Chelsea struggled to find a consistent goal scorer. Senegal international Nicolas Jackson scored 10 times in 30 league appearances, while Christopher Nkunku is expected to depart following an underwhelming two-year spell.
Delap, son of former Stoke City midfielder Rory Delap, began his career at Manchester City but found first-team opportunities limited under Pep Guardiola. Following loan spells at Stoke, Preston, and Hull, Ipswich signed him in a deal worth up to £20 million after their promotion to the Premier League last year.
Although Ipswich were relegated with just 22 points, Delap stood out as one of the few bright spots during a tough season.
Chelsea will face Flamengo, LAFC, and ES Tunis in the Club World Cup group stages starting on June 14.
