Liam Delap chooses to join Chelsea

Amidst strong links to Manchester United, Liam Delap has reportedly decided that he will join Chelsea ahead of next season.

According to The Athletic, potential suitors have been informed of Delap's decision to join the West London side.

The 22-year-old has been the subject of interest from the likes of Manchester United, Newcastle, Everton and Nottingham Forest in recent weeks but looks set to play his football at Stamford Bridge in 2025/26.

With Delap's mind made up, the deal is now subject to the agreement of personal terms and Chelsea meeting the terms of his release clause.

Owing to a relegation clause, the striker is allowed to leave Ipswich Town for the sum of £30m and has been granted permission to enter talks with sides that are willing to match that figure.

Scoring 12 and laying on further two assists - Delap impressed during his maiden Premier League campaign.

Given he managed to churn out these numbers for a struggling side, there is great hope that the former Man City academy player could further advance on that tally in a more successful team.

Delap's career seems to be one on a steep uphill trajectory.

He contributed 0.19 goals and assists per 90 in first Championship season before returning the following year with Hull where that number jumped to 0.41 per 90.

Now, with Ipswich in the Premier League, Delap is contributing to 0.48 goals and assists per 90.

Liam Delap - Ipswich Town stats in all competitions

Chelsea - who defeated Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final on Wednesday night - could sign Delap in time for him to be available for their FIFA Club World Cup trip to the United States.

There will be a special transfer window open to clubs participating in this summer's competition should any side want to strengthen their squad.

The exceptional window runs from 1st June to the 10th June and has already been at the centre of some spectacular transfer rumours.

Cristiano Ronaldo on Monday announced that he would leave Al-Nassr leading to speculation that he might join fellow Saudi club Al-Hilal, who will be taking part in the Club World Cup.

Real Madrid are also keen to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold during the 10-day period in order to guarantee his eligibility for the tournament.