Everton have identified Chelsea striker Liam Delap as a leading target as they seek attacking reinforcements in the summer.
The Toffees were keen on signing the striker from Ipswich Town after their relegation last summer, but the 23-year-old turned down the move and went on to join Chelsea in a £30 million deal.
However, his move to London has not worked out as planned. The England forward has struggled with injuries and form, while he has seen limited chances due to the impressive form of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro, who also arrived at the Blues last summer.
After scoring 12 Premier League goals for Ipswich Town last season, the young striker has managed just two goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.
With his impact falling short of expectations, Chelsea could be open to letting him leave despite only signing him a few months ago.
According to TeamTalk, Delap is Everton’s top choice to lead the line next season due to his physicality and Premier League experience.
The Merseyside club are expected to be in the market for attacking reinforcements, with the future of Guinea-Bissau striker Beto uncertain.
Meanwhile, Thierno Barry, who joined the club last summer, has struggled to establish himself as a consistent focal point, scoring just five times across all competitions this season.
If Delap does end up leaving Chelsea in the summer, a move to Everton would make sense for his development.
He suits the Toffees’ style of pla,y and playing under a well-experienced manager like David Moyes could be what he needs to rebuild confidence and rediscover his goalscoring form.
