Liam Delap has reportedly chosen Chelsea over Manchester United as his next destination, with the Blues ready to trigger the striker's £30 million release clause in his Ipswich Town contract.
Chelsea are now closing in on making the 22-year-old their first major summer signing after building momentum from their strong finish to the season. The West London club recently secured both a Conference League trophy and a top-four Premier League finish.
"He has a £30m release clause in his contract and is keen to join boss Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge," sources close to the negotiations revealed.
The England Under-21 international impressed despite Ipswich's relegation troubles, netting 12 goals during the campaign. His goalscoring prowess attracted attention from several top clubs, but the Blues appear to have won the race for his signature.
Manchester United's interest in Delap has cooled significantly. The lack of European football at Old Trafford next season seems to have worked against the Red Devils in their pursuit of the forward.
Interestingly, according to Statbet analysis, Delap's conversion rate made him one of the most efficient finishers outside the traditional top six clubs this season.
Chelsea's swift move comes as little surprise following their qualification for next season's Champions League. The deal could be announced as early as next week, with only personal terms left to be agreed.
The striker now needs to finalize personal terms before the transfer can be officially confirmed. Could this be the first of many summer moves as "Chelsea" look to strengthen their squad under Maresca? The transfer window promises plenty more action in the coming weeks.
