Liam Delap could be exactly what Forest need. Forest could be what he needs too | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest believe Liam Delap fits Oliver Glasner’s plan and are moving for a club-record deal after a difficult year at Chelsea. He is expected to sign a five-year contract once today’s medical is completed.

“For Liam, this is the perfect place. He has an opportunity to resurrect himself. The last year has been a bit of a disaster,” said former Forest striker Robert Earnshaw, speaking to The Athletic.

In summer meetings, Glasner set out a need for a striker with stature, mobility and pace, citing Jean-Philippe Mateta’s role at Crystal Palace. Forest think Delap matches that brief.

Ipswich Town saw it in 2024-2025, when the 23-year-old scored 12 top-flight goals in a relegation fight, prompting Chelsea to trigger a £30 million clause last summer. He managed one league goal there after a hamstring lay-off as Joao Pedro starred.

Forest’s need for punch was underlined by a 2-0 Carabao Cup loss to Leeds, with Chris Wood closest to scoring. “Woody’s biggest strength is laying the ball off, getting in the box, then dominating the area. Delap is slightly different,” said former Ipswich winger Paul Anderson.

“If you are playing with two 10s, Delap is as close to the perfect addition as you are going to get. He will stretch defences in a different way to Wood and Igor Jesus, which should create space in those pockets. He will give Forest something they do not have,” Anderson said.

Forest see parallels with Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi at the City Ground. The fee is an initial £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, and the club believe their environment can help Delap rebuild.

Source: NY Times

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