Just Now: £30 million release clause to finalise the transfer.

Sources close to the deal suggest that Delap is enthusiastic about the project being built at Stamford Bridge and has informed his representatives of his preference to join Chelsea, despite interest from several other Premier League clubs. The West London club have been tracking the England U21 international for some time and are now prepared to trigger his £30 million release clause to finalise the transfer

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Delap, who spent last season on loan at Hull City in the Championship, impressed with his physical presence, hold-up play, and growing goal-scoring instincts, registering 8 goals and 3 assists in 27 appearances before an injury curtailed his campaign. Though he has found first-team opportunities limited at Manchester City due to fierce competition, his talent and potential have never been in doubt. A move to Chelsea would offer a fresh platform to develop under a manager keen to work with young players.

The deal is seen as part of Chelsea’s wider recruitment strategy under sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, focusing on acquiring young, high-potential talents that can grow within the club’s evolving system. Delap’s physical profile and work rate align with Chelsea’s preferred style of play, and there is belief internally that he could eventually lead the line at Stamford Bridge.

With Chelsea likely to see several forward players depart this summer, including uncertainty surrounding the futures of Romelu Lukaku and Armando Broja, the acquisition of a promising striker like Delap is viewed as both a long-term investment and an immediate boost to squad depth.

Talks are understood to be progressing smoothly, with personal terms close to being agreed. If all goes according to plan, Chelsea are expected to complete the signing in the coming days, making Delap one of their first major moves of the summer window.

The Blues’ fans will be hopeful that Delap can replicate the success