Tottenham and Everton Chase Chelsea's Liam Delap

Tottenham Hotspur and Everton have emerged as potential suitors for Chelsea forward Liam Delap, who is expected to leave Ipswich Town this summer. According to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs, the 23-year-old is valued at around £24 million after a season on loan at Portman Road.

Loan Spell at Ipswich Ends in Relegation

Delap spent the 2024-25 campaign with Ipswich Town, but was unable to prevent their return to the Championship. The Tractor Boys finished 18th in the Premier League, five points from safety. Despite his efforts, the young attacker managed six goals and four assists in 32 appearances.

The former Manchester City academy product joined Chelsea in 2023 for an undisclosed fee, but has yet to make a senior appearance for the Blues. His development has been aided by loan moves to Stoke City and Preston North End prior to Ipswich.

Tottenham's Forward Search

Tottenham are looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025-26 season. With Richarlison's future uncertain and Son Heung-min entering the latter stages of his career, Spurs are keen on adding a young, versatile forward. Delap's ability to play as a central striker or on either wing makes him an attractive proposition.

Manager Ange Postecoglou typically deploys a fluid front three, and Delap's work rate and pressing ability could suit the Australian's high-intensity system. The £24m fee is also within Tottenham's budget, especially if they raise funds through player sales.

Everton's Need for Firepower

Everton, meanwhile, are in desperate need of goals after a disappointing campaign. The Toffees scored just 38 times in the league, the third-lowest total. While Dominic Calvert-Lewin remains their primary striker, his injury record has been a concern.

Sean Dyche's side often rely on set pieces and direct play, and Delap's physicality and aerial ability (he stands 6'2") could be an asset. However, the £24m price tag may stretch Everton's finances, especially with profit and sustainability rules looming.

Transfer Market Context

The £24m valuation is modest by modern Premier League standards, particularly for a player with Delap's pedigree. Comparable young English forwards, such as Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) or Omari Hutchinson, have moved for similar or higher fees.

Given that Delap is still only 23 and has yet to reach his peak, the investment carries relatively low risk. Both clubs will view the fee as a calculated gamble on a player with proven Championship and lower Premier League experience.

Fantasy Premier League Implications

For FPL managers, Delap's potential move to a top-flight side is worth monitoring. If he joins Tottenham, he would likely be a rotational option initially, priced around £6.5m. A move to Everton, however, might see him as a regular starter, potentially at a similar price point. His ownership will spike upon confirmation, but managers should assess his minutes and underlying stats before buying.

What's Next

With the summer transfer window opening in June, both Tottenham and Everton are expected to accelerate their pursuit. Indications from Chelsea suggest they are willing to sell Delap, possibly with a buy-back clause inserted. The player himself is believed to favour a move that offers regular first-team football, which could tip the scales in Everton's favour if they guarantee starts.

The race is likely to intensify once the season officially ends. Neither club has submitted a formal bid yet, but initial enquiries have been made. The coming weeks will determine whether Delap remains in London or heads north to Merseyside.

Filed under: Transfer Rumours | LA Premier League Home