Chelsea open talks with Ipswich Town for Liam Delap – Sources

Chelsea are working on a deal with Ipswich Town for Liam Delap, sources have told The Sportzine. The Blues are confident of getting the Englishman this summer but face competition from Manchester United.

Chelsea are keen on adding a striker in the summer and are trying to agree a deal with Ipswich Town before any other club enters talks in the summer. The Blues have got the go-ahead from Delap, though personal terms are yet to be agreed.

Delap is expected to leave Portman Road at the end of the season, regardless of Ipswich Town staying in the Premier League or getting relegated to the Championship. The striker has interest from Manchester United, while Arsenal are also said to be keeping tabs on the forward but he is not among their top 3 targets.

Sources close to the situation at Chelsea state that Benjamin Sesko is also a target for the Blues, but doubts remain over the Slovenian star’s adaptability to the Premier League. The Sporting Directors are convinced that Delap can deliver on the big stage for the Blues and challenge Nicolas Jackson for the starting role.

As things stand, Arsenal remain the front-runners for Sesko, but their focus is currently on Alexander Isak. Newcastle United are yet to entertain talks and have reportedly asked for over £150 million to scare off the Gunners. Ollie Watkins remains the 2nd option for Mikel Arteta, leaving Sesko at third and Delap as the 4th option.

Marc Guiu is expected to stay at Chelsea next season though he has not managed to challenge Jackson for his place. Enzo Maresca and the coaches are impressed with the Spaniard and believe that he can be a key figure in cup competitions and get better next season.