Delap Deal Nearing? Chelsea Make Bold Move for Striker Duo Including Ekitike

With a top-four Premier League finish and a coveted UEFA Champions League spot secured, Chelsea are moving aggressively to transform their attack in what could become one of the most sensational striker revamps of 2025.

According to The Guardian, the Blues are locked in advanced talks with Ipswich over Liam Delap, whose relegation-triggered £30 million release clause has turned heads across the Premier League. But Chelsea’s ambitions don’t stop there—Eintracht Frankfurt’s red-hot Hugo Ekitike and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are also firmly on the radar in what could become a jaw-dropping £176 million triple pursuit.

Sources close to Stamford Bridge reveal that manager Enzo Maresca is under pressure to deliver a dynamic forward capable of supporting or replacing the inconsistent Nicolas Jackson. “Delap’s raw power and high-press instincts fit perfectly into my tactical system,” Maresca has reportedly told insiders, convinced the 22-year-old can bring the ‘punch’ Chelsea’s attack lacks.

Delap, a former Manchester City youth talent, is also being courted by Everton, Newcastle, and Manchester United. However, United’s recent failure to secure European qualification may give Chelsea a crucial edge.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are closely monitoring Hugo Ekitike—a player who has exploded this season with 22 goals for Frankfurt. The French U21 international, previously at PSG, carries a steep £84 million price tag. But Chelsea are hoping to negotiate that down. “He’s got composure and finishing that reminds you of early Thierry Henry,” a Stamford Bridge source hinted.

Then there’s Benjamin Sesko, the Slovenian wonderkid with 26 goals across all competitions and a £62 million release clause. Arsenal and at least two other top clubs are circling, but Chelsea’s long-standing interest could pay dividends this summer.

All this comes as Christopher Nkunku, expected to lead the line, continues to underperform, and signs point to a summer exit. Meanwhile, backup striker Marc Guiu remains untested at the top level.

With Chelsea also eyeing reinforcements at centre-back, winger, and possibly in goal—where Robert Sánchez could be sold—the club is preparing for one of the boldest summer rebuilds in recent memory.

Fans won’t have to wait long—Chelsea face Real Betis this Wednesday in the UEFA Conference League final, a potential launching pad for a transfer window that could change everything.