Chelsea Football Club has signed 22-year-old Liam Delap to a six-year contract, a £20m deal that includes an upfront payment and a sell-on clause, both of which are secured by Ipswich.
The 22-year-old English striker will remain at Chelsea until 2031, extending his contract for six years.
Delap, a 12-goal scorer in 37 top-flight games last season, transferred to Ipswich in 2024 for approximately £20m following his time at Manchester City’s academy. His journey to Ipswich involved loan spells with Stoke, Preston, and Hull before signing permanently.
With six first-team appearances for Manchester City, including a League Cup goal, the young striker has a bright future.
The striker, who previously worked with the Argentine manager in Premier League 2, is well-equipped to succeed under Maresca again.
Liam Delap’s 24 goals earned him the PL2 top goalscorer award and the PL2 Player of the Season title.
Cole Palmer scored 13 goals, and Romeo Lavia played in 20 matches.
The London club’s long-term project will include the trio.
Chelsea’s Conference League victory secured their Champions League spot, giving Delap a chance to build on his one prior appearance with Manchester City in 2022.
Securing Delap, a triumph for Enzo Maresca and Chelsea’s recruitment team, came after outcompeting Manchester United, Newcastle, and Everton.