Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are locked in a fierce transfer battle for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, but the 22-year-old’s extraordinary wage demands are causing ripples across the Premier League. After an impressive debut top-flight season with Ipswich, Delap has attracted the attention of several elite clubs, including Manchester United and Newcastle United. However, his ask for a weekly salary between £120,000 and £150,000 could price out many suitors.
Delap, who signed for Ipswich from Manchester City for £20 million last summer, delivered a strong individual performance despite his team’s relegation, notching 12 goals in 33 league matches. Following their demotion, Delap’s release clause has reportedly dropped to £30 million, adding urgency to the transfer race.
While some clubs might hesitate at his financial expectations, Chelsea could have the upper hand. The West London club already pays eight of its players over £150,000 a week, suggesting they have the financial flexibility to meet Delap’s terms. Chelsea are actively seeking to boost their attacking options and see Delap as a valuable addition to provide competition and support for Nicolas Jackson. Other potential forward targets include Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres.
Tottenham are also keen on reinforcing their squad after a turbulent season under Ange Postecoglou. Despite bringing in Dominic Solanke in a £65 million deal last summer, Spurs see Delap as a promising depth option to enhance their attack.
Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna remains open about Delap’s future, stating: “As I’ve said before, I think there’s certainly a possibility that he’s an Ipswich player next year. I don’t think anything’s decided in anyone’s mind. But could Liam play for the biggest clubs in the country, the biggest clubs in the world? He certainly can. I fully believe that.”
McKenna also cautioned suitors to manage expectations, pointing out that Delap is still in the early stages of his career. “He’s not played a huge amount of minutes as a leading striker in a team before, and with it he’s still learning and getting better all the time,” he explained. “What’s right for Liam? What’s right for Ipswich? All those factors will come into play in the summer.”
