Chelsea: Xabi Alonso eyes ‘big’ striker signing as Liam Delap could be forced out
Chelsea‘s Liam Delap could be forced to assess his future as new boss Xabi Alonso targets a new striker signing in his first transfer window at the club.
Delap last scored for Chelsea in early January, and has netted just three times in 46 appearances so far this season.
The 23-year-old has failed to make an impact under three different managers at Stamford Bridge, with Alonso now set to weigh up his future when he begins his role in July.
Alonso could demand a new striker signing this summer, with Delap’s future looking uncertain as a result, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast.
The Spaniard will be fronting Chelsea’s transfer plans, with more attacking firepower needed after such a disappointing campaign.
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VISIT THE CHELSEA TRANSFER HUBLiam Delap facing uncertain future at Chelsea amid striker plan
Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Delap will need to impress Alonso in pre-season training to earn a longer stay at the club.
The Blues have been linked to several new strikers in the last few months, with an addition potentially set to see Delap moved on after just one season in West London.
| Appearances | 27 |
| Minutes played | 1097′ |
| Goals | 1 |
| Shots | 36 |
| Chances created | 3 |
| Duels won % | 39.3% |
| Fouls won | 19 |
| Fouls committed | 25 |
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Chelsea, a lot will depend on if they’re bringing a new striker in the summer, if they’re bringing a new big striker to come in and play in the side.
“That’d obviously push Delap down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge and that might force the player to consider his options as well, in that respect.”
Which clubs have been linked to Delap?
Delap may have struggled at Chelsea, but his impressive spell at Ipswich Town in 2024-25 proved that he has what it takes to play regularly in the Premier League, as he scored 12 goals in 37 games.
In terms of which club he could join if he leaves the Blues soon, sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Everton are lining up a move for Delap to bolster David Moyes’ striker depth.
Newcastle have also been linked to Delap as they plot a new striker signing, with Chelsea likely to demand around £30million if Alonso allows him to leave.
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