‘Keep an eye on this’ – How David Moyes feels about Liam Delap signing after Chelsea news
David Moyes is keen to work with Liam Delap and will encourage Everton to sign him from Chelsea should he become available in the summer.
The 23-year-old has struggled since his move to Stamford Bridge last summer and has scored just two goals in 25 appearances across all competitions.
As a result, there is a growing feeling that Chelsea could allow him to move on, sparking interest from a number of rival clubs in the Premier League.
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown, who worked closely alongside Moyes, told Football Insider that the boss “would love” to add Delap to his squad next summer.
Moyes is not convinced about his current striker options at Everton and had also pushed to bring Delap to the Hill Dickinson Stadium before his move to Chelsea.
David Moyes pushing Everton to sign Liam Delap
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 20 February that Delap is a top target for Everton ahead of the summer window as they aim to bolster their attacking ranks.
There is a growing feeling he could be allowed to leave Chelsea, despite playing more of a role under Liam Rosenior, after a number of disappointing displays.
“I think Moyesy would love to sign Delap if he was available,” Brown told Football Insider.
“Everton were looking to bring him in last year, before he went to Chelsea, and I think that would have been a better fit for him in all honestly.
“Obviously he made his decision, but things haven’t quite gone right there, they’re not impressed by what they’ve seen so they could let him go.
“So for Everton, they’re going to be having a look to see if he become available. I think this is one to keep an eye on.
“They’ve got Beto and Barry at the moment, neither of which have been particularly impressive, so the opportunity to bring in a new striker will appeal to them.
“And as I say, Moyes is a big fan of him, so if there’s a deal to be done and Chelsea are willing to let him go, I expect he will be pushing Everton to do it.”
How does Liam Rosenior feel about selling Delap?
Delap has struggled so far this season at Chelsea, failing to make a real impact under Enzo Maresca, before turning in some inconsistent displays more recently.
However, Football Insider exclusively revealed on 23 February that Rosenior is reluctant to lose Delap given the lack of natural centre-forwards at Stamford Bridge.
Joao Pedro is the other leading option at Chelsea, but is not seen as an out-and-out striker, leaving the Everton target as their main outlet.
Sources say Rosenior could become more open to Delap’s sale if they can land a replacement in the transfer market, with a number of options being considered.
However, no commitment will be made to the striker’s future just yet, and Everton are expected to be one of a number of clubs keeping an eye on his situation.
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