Chelsea Secure Liam Delap on Long-Term Deal
Chelsea Football Club has completed the signing of striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, with the forward committing his future to the Blues until 2031.
The club announced the signing on its website on Wednesday evening.
The 22-year-old England Under-21 international enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League season, scoring 12 goals for Ipswich during the 2024/25 campaign. His performances earned him a nomination for the Young Player of the Year award.
Speaking about his move to Stamford Bridge, 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.”
Delap began his professional journey at Derby County’s youth academy before moving to Manchester City in 2019. After a year with City’s Under-18 setup, he progressed to their Elite Development Squad under the guidance of current Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.
His breakthrough season was remarkable, as he scored 24 goals in 20 Premier League 2 appearances. He made his senior debut with a goal in City’s League Cup campaign and later featured in the Premier League against Leicester City.
In the 2021/22 season, Delap earned further first-team opportunities before going out on loan to Stoke City and Preston North End.
A productive 2023/24 campaign at Hull City, where he scored eight goals, paved the way for his transfer to newly promoted Ipswich Town. Delap made an immediate impact, netting 12 goals in 37 Premier League appearances for the Suffolk club, according to Chelsea.
He has regularly represented England at youth level and most recently earned caps with the Under-21 squad in March.
