Chelsea Eye Liam Delap as Striker Solution Amid Christopher Nkunku Sale Rumors
Chelsea are targeting Ipswich Town's Liam Delap as a potential striker signing in January, with a reported price tag of over £50 million, while considering selling Christopher Nkunku to fund the deal.
Original Source
Chelsea Chronicle
Written by
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
Chelsea are actively pursuing a new striker in January to bolster their attacking options, with Liam Delap emerging as a key target. Delap has impressed in his debut Premier League season, scoring eight goals in 20 starts for Ipswich Town. However, securing the 21-year-old could cost Chelsea upwards of £50 million. To fund the move, the Blues may sell Christopher Nkunku, who has struggled to secure a regular starting role under Enzo Maresca. Nkunku has drawn interest from top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, and his potential sale could offset the cost of acquiring Delap.
- Liam Delap's Appeal:
- The 21-year-old striker has scored eight goals and provided two assists in his debut Premier League season.
- Chelsea have been in contact twice with Ipswich Town regarding Delap, but a transfer could require a bid exceeding £50 million.
- Chelsea's Attacking Concerns:
- Despite Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer's contributions, Chelsea's attack has struggled recently, with Jackson managing just one goal in his last eight games.
- Manager Enzo Maresca is seeking additional competition to alleviate the pressure on the current forward line.
- Potential Sale of Christopher Nkunku:
- Nkunku, despite his quality, has failed to become a regular starter and could be sold to raise funds.
- Bayern Munich has shown interest, and Chelsea are holding out for a fee higher than the £52 million they paid for the French forward.
- Financial Implications:
- Selling Nkunku could generate the necessary funds for Delap's transfer while aligning with Chelsea's profit and sustainability goals.
- Managerial Faith in Delap:
- Enzo Maresca is reportedly a big admirer of Delap and views him as a long-term solution for Chelsea's attacking needs.
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Michael Regan/Getty Images
Written by
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
Co-founder of The1905Club. A life long Chelsea fan and season ticket holder for over twenty years. Now residing in Poland, this doesn't stop Tosh from watching every minute of every game.
