Forest have finalized a landmark £50 million transfer agreement with Chelsea striker Liam Delap, marking a significant shift in the club’s scouting strategy and bolstering their squad for the upcoming season. The agreement, announced on Tuesday, details a long-term contract at the City Ground, addressing a key issue concerning Delap’s availability and future prospects within the Premier League.
The 23-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town in 2019, is expected to undergo a thorough medical examination and finalize the terms of his contract this week. His move comes after a period of disruption in his career, marked by shoulder and hamstring injuries that limited his playing time. Chelsea has indicated they are willing to retain the player, providing him with a longer-term contract than previously offered.
The deal represents a considerable increase in Forest’s transfer budget, as confirmed by Forest’s Sporting Director, Mike Brown. The club has already secured the services of defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting, alongside free agents Austrian midfielder Xaver Schlager and goalkeeper Steve Benda. Forest’s previous sale of England midfielder Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for a club-record £116 million further demonstrates their commitment to securing key players.
Delap’s arrival will undoubtedly intensify competition for the striker positions at Forest, with Chris Wood and Igor Jesus vying for regular playing time. Chelsea’s decision to make him available for sale this summer, following a goalless performance in their home Premier League opener against Leeds United, suggests a strategic move to manage his workload and ensure his continued development. The club has also signed two strikers this summer, Emmanuel Emegha from Strasbourg and Danny Welbeck from Brighton, adding to the squad’s depth.
Despite his previous loan spells in the Championship, Delap has consistently demonstrated his ability to score goals. He earned 24 goals in 20 Premier League 2 matches in 2020-21, showcasing his potential as a consistent threat. His career has been marked by periods of temporary stints in Stoke, Preston North End, and Hull City, highlighting a willingness to seek new opportunities. The deal, finalized in September 2020, saw him score on his senior City debut in a 2-1 League Cup win against Bournemouth and three days later make his Premier League debut in a 5-2 defeat by Leicester.
Injuries have played a part in limiting Delap’s first-team opportunities, and between 2022 and 2024, he spent time on loan with Stoke, Preston North End, and Hull City, reflecting his adaptability and desire to gain valuable experience.
With this significant contract, Forest have secured a long-term partnership with Chelsea’s star striker, marking a pivotal moment in the club’s strategic approach to player development and squad stability.
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Source: Adom Sports
