LONDON: Liam Delap is nearing the end of his ‘disappointing’ spell with Chelsea as the striker is expected to join Nottingham Forest for a transfer fee of 40 million pounds.
Delap, 23, failed to live up to expectations after joining Chelsea from Ipswich Town for 30 million pounds, scoring just one goal in the English Premier League (EPL) last season.
However, a move to Forest would allow Chelsea to make a profit of around 10 million pounds after only one season of his services.
Forest manager Oliver Glasner, who is currently one of the highest-paid EPL managers, is reportedly looking to strengthen his attacking line-up after his team opened the campaign with a 0-1 defeat to Leeds United at home.
Forest failed to produce a goal in the match, with key striker Igor Jesus and veteran Chris Wood failing to capitalise on opportunities.
The situation became more urgent after Taiwo Awoniyi completed a 9 million pound transfer to newly promoted EPL club, Coventry City.
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Therefore, Delap is identified as a player who can provide additional sharpness to Forest’s attacking line.
Delap previously stood out while with Ipswich when he scored 12 goals in the 2023/24 season while helping the club compete in the EPL.
However, his form declined after moving to Stamford Bridge and he only scored one goal all season.
Delap’s only goal came in Chelsea’s 1-2 defeat to neighbours Fulham in January.
His disappointing performance also caused Chelsea fans to start missing Nicolas Jackson, a striker who had been inconsistent but was capable of producing moments of brilliance.
Jackson has now returned to Chelsea after spending time on loan with Bayern Munich, but is said to be a target for Aston Villa.
According to international media reports, Delap has the opportunity to complete a move to Forest as early as this weekend.
Chelsea, however, have strengthened their options in the center forward position by bringing in Danny Welbeck to compete with Joao Pedro.
Strasbourg striker Emmanuel Emegha also completed a previously scheduled transfer.
Now, the question is how new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso will use Emegha in his plans for this season.
With Delap close to leaving Stamford Bridge, Forest will also be hoping the striker can recapture the scoring touch he once displayed at Ipswich.