Chelsea are close to confirming the signing of Liam Delap, as the Blues have triggered the release clause of the young striker from Ipswich Town.

Reporter Matt Law has claimed that Chelsea plan for Delap and Nicolas Jackson to battle it out for the main striker position next season.

Matt Law reports: “Having completed the £30m signing of Delap, Chelsea remain in the market for a versatile forward and a left winger.

“Hugo Ekitike proved at Eintracht Frankfurt that he could play with Omar Marmoush and as a lone striker and he is one of a number of attackers the Blues have checked on.

“Chelsea expect Delap and Nicolas Jackson to compete for the out-and-out striker position with Ekitike or another versatile forward providing a further option from deep or a wide position. Christopher Nkunku will be allowed to leave.”