Everton Lead the Race for £40m Liam Delap as Chelsea Open the Exit Door

Everton have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap, with the Toffees pushing to bring the England Under-21 international to Merseyside. TEAMtalk reports that Chelsea have made it clear the 23-year-old can leave Stamford Bridge this summer, creating a major opportunity for David Moyes to strengthen his attack. Everton have already held discussions with Chelsea, who are believed to be demanding around £40 million for the forward.

Delap only joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town for around £30 million last summer, but his first campaign in west London failed to match expectations. The striker struggled to establish himself as a regular and has now fallen further down the pecking order under new manager Xabi Alonso. Joao Pedro has been identified as Alonso’s preferred striker, and Chelsea have reportedly tied the Brazilian down to a new long-term contract. Delap’s omission from Chelsea’s final pre-season friendly has only strengthened suggestions that his exit is imminent.

Everton’s position at the front of the queue could also be helped by Delap’s own preference. The striker is reportedly keen to remain in England, with a return to the North of England particularly attractive. That could give Moyes’ side an advantage over foreign clubs such as Como, Villarreal and Benfica, who have also shown interest. Manchester United, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest are also in the picture, meaning Everton cannot afford to relax their pursuit.

For Everton, however, the biggest question could be financial. The Toffees may want to sell one of their existing forwards before committing to a £40 million deal. Beto appears to be the likeliest candidate if an offer arrives, particularly after Thierno Barry impressed during pre-season. Still, there is currently no concrete indication that Beto will leave. Everton have already completed a deal with Chelsea this summer for Tyrique George, showing that negotiations between the two clubs can progress quickly.

Chelsea reportedly expect Delap to leave Stamford Bridge before the end of August, while Everton remain determined to take advantage of the situation. A move to Goodison Park would give Delap another chance to prove himself in the Premier League and potentially revive the form that made him one of England’s most exciting young forwards. For Moyes, securing the striker could provide a major attacking boost. With Chelsea ready to sell and Delap searching for a fresh start, Everton now have a clear opportunity—but they must move quickly before their rivals make their move.