Confirmed: Chelsea Complete the Signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town – “We Ain’t Got No History” Reports
Chelsea Football Club have officially sealed the signing of rising English striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, in a move that signals the Blues’ continued push to invest in young, high-potential talent. The deal, first reported by Chelsea fan outlet *We Ain’t Got No History*, has now been confirmed by both clubs, with Delap making the switch to Stamford Bridge after a strong spell in the Championship.
The 21-year-old forward, who impressed with his strength, movement, and sharp finishing for Ipswich Town last season, is understood to have agreed personal terms earlier this week before completing his medical in London on Thursday morning. Delap, who netted 17 goals in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, becomes Chelsea’s second attacking addition of the summer.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest the deal could rise to around £20 million, including performance-based add-ons. Delap had been a key figure in Ipswich’s promotion-chasing side, but the lure of Premier League football and Chelsea’s long-term vision proved decisive.
In his first interview as a Chelsea player, Delap expressed his excitement and ambition: “It’s a dream come true to join a club like Chelsea. I’ve watched this team since I was a kid and to now wear the badge is an honour. I’m here to learn, work hard, and hopefully score goals for the fans.”
Delap, originally a Manchester City academy graduate, spent time on loan at several clubs including Stoke City and Hull City before permanently joining Ipswich, where he enjoyed his breakout season. His physical presence and natural goal-scoring instincts drew interest from several Premier League sides, but Chelsea moved quickly to secure his signature.
Head coach Enzo Maresca, who is familiar with Delap from his time in youth coaching at Manchester City, is believed to be a strong supporter of the striker’s development. Speaking on the signing, Maresca said: “Liam is a player I know well. He has all the qualities to become a top-level striker — powerful, intelligent, and hungry. We believe he fits perfectly into the system we’re building here.”
Delap is expected to join Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the United States, where he’ll have the chance to stake his claim for a spot in the first-team squad. While competition up front remains fierce with players like Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku in the mix, Delap’s arrival adds depth and youth to Chelsea’s attacking arsenal.
Ipswich Town released a statement thanking Delap for his contributions and wishing him well: “Liam has been an outstanding professional during his time at the club. We’re proud of the role we played in his development and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.”
