Chelsea are edging closer to the signing of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, according to Sky Sports News. The 22-year-old forward, who has impressed in his debut Premier League season, is expected to make the switch to Stamford Bridge after Chelsea signalled their intention to activate his £30m release clause.

Delap has opted to join the Blues despite strong interest from multiple Premier League and European clubs. One of the key factors influencing his decision is Chelsea’s Champions League qualification, along with the opportunity to reunite with head coach Enzo Maresca and co-director of recruitment Joe Shields, both of whom he previously worked with at Manchester City.

Delap fits the exact profile Chelsea are targeting this summer—young, Premier League-ready, and full of potential. The Blues are continuing their strategy of building a youthful, dynamic squad, focusing on long-term development with players signed to structured, incentivised contracts.

Delap has been a bright spark for a struggling Ipswich side, scoring over 10 goals in the league and emerging as the team’s most consistent attacking threat. He’s combined pace and power with intelligent movement and has been praised for his ability to hold up play and beat defenders one-on-one. Sky Sports’ Peter Smith described him as “the bargain buy of the summer”, noting his rare blend of strength, technique and finishing ability.

As Chelsea prepare for a busy summer transfer window, they are looking to reinforce their attack ahead of their opening Club World Cup match in Atlanta on June 16. Delap could be the first of several arrivals, with other strikers like Hugo Ekitike, Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško also on the radar.

Meanwhile, Ipswich are reportedly interested in Chelsea striker Marc Guiu. The 18-year-old has been mentioned during discussions over Delap and could be offered as part of a deal or sent out on loan.

Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol added:

“The important thing for Liam Delap is Chelsea are playing in the Champions League. He feels it is the perfect place to move to and has worked with Enzo Maresca and Joe Shields. Chelsea are going to be busy again this summer. They want to aim higher and win the Champions League. They feel Delap is someone who can help them get there.”

Delap’s arrival would add more firepower and competition to a Chelsea squad already brimming with attacking potential. With Champions League football on the horizon and a squad brimming with youthful energy, Stamford Bridge could be the ideal platform for the England youth international to take the next leap in his career.