Liam Delap fighting for Chelsea future with five suitors on alert in case of ruthless summer sale | OneFootball

Liam Delap’s former suitors are keeping a very close eye on developments at Stamford Bridge, with sources informing TEAMtalk that the striker is effectively playing for his Chelsea future in the second half of the campaign.

Chelsea snapped up the 22‑year‑old from Ipswich Town in the summer after activating a clause worth around £30million, and there was genuine optimism that Delap would push his way into the starting XI and use the platform to force his way into England’s World Cup plans.

But the season has unravelled in frustrating fashion. Delap suffered a serious hamstring injury in August during the home derby with Fulham, ruling him out for two months and leaving him chasing fitness and rhythm ever since. His first goal did not arrive until January – ironically, also against Fulham – and he has struggled to build momentum, returning just one goal in 15 league appearances.

TEAMtalk revealed earlier this week that Chelsea have reignited their interest in Porto sensation Samu Aghehowa, and while the club are thrilled with the impact of summer signing Joao Pedro, there are growing concerns about the overall depth and reliability of their forward line.

Incoming striker Emmanuel Emegha hopes to stake his claim, but nothing is guaranteed. Meanwhile, loan forward Nicolas Jackson is not viewed internally as a long‑term option, placing even more scrutiny on Delap’s performances.

Sources have told TEAMtalk that the remainder of the season will be crucial in determining whether Delap is part of Chelsea’s long‑term project. The club insist publicly that he remains a key figure, but privately there is an acceptance that a Chelsea centre‑forward who isn’t scoring will not keep that role indefinitely.

Despite his struggles, Delap’s market remains strong. Manchester United, Newcastle United and Everton all pushed hard for his signature before his move to Stamford Bridge, and all three clubs are understood to be monitoring the situation closely should Chelsea decide to listen to offers. Indeed, other clubs such as Brighton and Sunderland are also watching.

For now, the message from inside the club is clear: Delap has time to put things right, but the pressure is on – and his future in west London may hinge on what he delivers between now and May.

Chelsea transfer news: Goalkeeping plans/Ngumoha fee

My colleague Dean Jones has also explained Chelsea’s goalkeeping plans after long-term target Mike Maignan signed a new contract with AC Milan.