Chelsea haven’t had the best luck with strikers in recent years. Fernando Torres, Falcao, Alvaro Morata, and Romelu Lukaku – all failed to live up to the expectations. However, things could change with the arrival of a promising youngster.
Recently, the Blues signed Liam Delap for £30 million from Ipswich. Although many teams wanted to get him on the team, in the end, it was Chelsea who emerged victorious. In the following article, I’ll explore how he fits into Enzo Maresca’s system.
Who is Liam Delap?
You might know his name from the Championship. You might also know his dad, Rory Delap, who was famous for his freakishly long throw-ins at Stoke. But Liam is following his own path.
Before moving to Man City’s youth academy, Liam Delap started his career at Derby County. If there was one player from Ipswich from the previous season, it was the young English striker. At only 21, he netted 12 goals and was a crucial part of the team.
Here’s what @ChelseaFC are getting in new signing Liam Delap 👀 pic.twitter.com/90cnJDN0wk
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 4, 2025
Despite his age, Delap already showcases serious composure and striker instincts. What I love about him is that he’s not flashy. He’s efficient, strong, and smart with his movement. He doesn’t try to be Erling Haaland, but he knows how to hurt defences.
Why Chelsea, and Why Now?
Chelsea have been in a massive rebuilding process. The Todd Boehly era has been about putting their hopes on youth while building a future squad, not just plugging holes. Delap fits that blueprint perfectly.
We all know that there were high-profile names on Chelsea’s potential transfer list. However, Liam Delap, who is only 21, still has plenty of room for improvement compared to the other targets.
Chelsea’s new forward Liam Delap produced these returns at Ipswich last season…📊
Anyone planning on making room in their #FPL team for him next season? 🔵 pic.twitter.com/qKwYSXEIqW
— Fantasy Premier League (@OfficialFPL) June 5, 2025
His move to Chelsea also means a reunion with Enzo Maresca. Chelsea’s manager worked with him when he managed City’s Elite Development Squad, while Cole Palmer also played with Delap at City.
The Number 9 Curse
The No. 9 shirt at Chelsea has seemed to be cursed in recent years. But interestingly, Liam Delap asked for the number himself. It is clear that the youngster is not hiding from the pressure
I believe this could be the moment we stop talking about curses and start talking about breakthroughs. He’s got the mentality, the work rate, and the hunger. That’s a dangerous combo.
What Does This Mean for Chelsea’s Attack?
Liam Delap has a lot to offer to the team. It’s not just about scoring goals, he can also create opportunities for other players.
Additionally, he can provide the Blues with verticality. He makes defenders turn and chase. Chelsea’s attack can finally stretch defences and not just recycle the ball sideways.
Liam Delap will wear Chelsea’s famous ‘cursed’ No.9 shirt next season 😅9️⃣ pic.twitter.com/sBeI4E3HR4
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) June 5, 2025
In the 4-2-3-1 formation, Delap will act as a sole centre forward, which will unlock a handful of possibilities for others. Cole Palmer thrives with runners ahead of him, and Christopher Nkunku loves space to operate behind the defenders.
What’s Next?
This isn’t the blockbuster deal that’ll break the summer transfer window. On the contrary, it’s a smart, forward-thinking move and one that could pay off big if Chelsea play it right.
Chelsea fans will get an early look at Delap during pre-season, and maybe even at the FIFA Club World Cup later this year. If he hits the ground running, he could make himself undroppable by the holidays.
I don’t expect Delap to drop 20+ goals in his first season. But I do think he’ll chip in consistently, make others better, and grow into a proper top-six striker. Let’s see what the new No.9 has in store.
