Chelsea to benefit from Man City's Haaland decision

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 26 Nov 2024 18:37 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester City have reportedly decided against activating the buy-back clause in Liam Delap’s contract at Ipswich Town.

The 21-year-old joined Kieran McKenna’s side on a permanent deal for €17.9 million in July and he has enjoyed an immense start to the 2024-25 campaign, notching six goals in 12 Premier League matches for the Tractor Boys.

Delap’s form has attracted significant interest from Chelsea, with the west London giants monitoring his current form amid their search for a new number nine.

READ MORE: Chelsea on RED ALERT as No.9 transfer listed for January

Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak and Evan Ferguson have also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in 2025, but Delap appears to be one of the club’s priority transfer targets.

However, Man City have been tipped to re-sign Delap next year, with the sale of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid meaning Erling Haaland is the only recognised striker at Pep Guardiola’s disposal.

The Norway international has only scored once in his last four Man City appearances and there are suggestions that he could benefit from additional support in order to reduce his current workload.

READ MORE: Chelsea face 'huge demand' to complete dream transfer

But, the Cityzens have decided against triggering Delap’s €36m (£30m) buy-back clause, according to GiveMeSport, with the club seemingly content with their current attacking options.

While Ipswich are determined to retain Delap’s services, as they look to avoid an immediate relegation back to the Championship, Chelsea are expected to ramp up their interest in the England U21 star over the next few months.

What has been said about Liam Delap?

Chelsea’s interest in Delap comes after Danny Murphy recently tipped him to become Harry Kane's heir in the England national team.

“I've seen him quite a lot this season and I'd probably go as far as to say that, for me, he is the obvious long-term successor to [Harry] Kane,” Murphy recently admitted (as per The Sun).

“I think he's the best young English striker out there. I know he's got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league, but he's got all the attributes to be a top international player.”