Delap signing was heavily influenced by Maresca, who worked with the forward during their time together at Manchester City’s academy
Chelsea have completed the signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for £30 million, securing one of their top attacking targets ahead of a busy summer and a second season under head coach Enzo Maresca.
The 22-year-old striker, who netted 12 goals for Ipswich last season, has signed a six-year deal at Stamford Bridge after Chelsea activated the release clause in his contract. The move comes after Ipswich’s relegation from the Premier League, which made Delap available at what Chelsea believe to be a bargain price for a player with significant upside.
Delap, the son of former Stoke City long-throw specialist Rory Delap, turned down interest from Everton, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United to join Chelsea. His decision was heavily influenced by Maresca, who worked with the forward during their time together at Manchester City’s academy setup. That connection proved crucial in Chelsea’s successful pitch.
Delap said: “I understand the stature of this club and can see the trajectory it is on with these players and the head coach. 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.”
