Everton have opened talks with Chelsea over a move for striker Liam Delap, according to Italian journalist Nicolò Schira.
It’s the clearest sign yet that the Toffees’ long-running interest in the 23-year-old has moved into concrete negotiations, rather than the positioning and price-setting that’s characterised the story so far this summer.
Chelsea are believed to want around £40m for a player who cost them roughly £30m from Ipswich Town last year.
David Moyes has admired Delap for some time, having spoken publicly about his interest even before the striker chose Chelsea over Everton in 2024.
That interest has resurfaced this summer as Delap has fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, with Xabi Alonso committing to Joao Pedro as his first-choice number nine and leaving Delap out of Chelsea’s squad entirely for their final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad.
A move to the Hill Dickinson would likely have knock-on consequences for Everton’s current frontline options, with question marks already surrounding Thierno Barry’s long-term role given reported interest from RB Leipzig.
Everton have made five permanent signings so far this summer, with their business so far focused on midfield reinforcements. A forward arrival would represent a shift in priorities heading into the closing stages of the window.
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