Lee Hendrie has expressed strong support for Ipswich Town pursuing a deal for Chelsea’s Marc Guiu, suggesting the 19-year-old could be a smart attacking addition this summer.
Following Liam Delap’s transfer to Chelsea, Ipswich are in the market for a forward. According to The Athletic, the Championship side is actively monitoring Guiu as a possible loan target for the new season.
With manager Kieran McKenna aiming to strengthen his squad for a Premier League promotion push, replacing Delap is a pressing priority.
Lee Hendrie Shares Optimism on Guiu’s Championship Potential
Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Hendrie acknowledged the blow Delap’s exit deals to Ipswich’s attack — but believes Guiu might be a valuable replacement.
“Ipswich obviously losing Delap, it’s key that they get someone in the door,” Hendrie said. “The boy from Chelsea, Marc Guiu, he’s obviously been heavily linked.”
Guiu made limited appearances for Chelsea last season — three in the Premier League — but impressed during their UEFA Conference League campaign, scoring six goals in nine matches.
Hendrie continued:
“I think they need to push and try and bring someone in that can go and get them a hell of a lot of goals, really, and I’m not saying that yes, this is the key and this is the answer. This is going to be a bit of a gamble if they are to really push for this deal to happen.”
He emphasized the growing trend of young talent moving on loan to gain experience and believes Guiu could be ready for the Championship step up.
“But again, I feel that we’re seeing a lot of younger players now racing to go out on loan and going to different clubs on a permanent basis where they get an opportunity to really shine. I’ve got a good feeling about this young man that he could step up and show that he’s got a bit of everything, he really has.”
“So, they’re obviously keen to get this deal done because the loss of Delap is going to be a huge dent.”
Guiu Loan Could Be a Smart Gamble
Though still young and relatively untested in English league football, Guiu has shown flashes of potential and might benefit from regular minutes. Ipswich would offer the kind of competitive environment that could fast-track his development, while filling a critical void left by Delap.
If a deal materializes, both Ipswich and Guiu have much to gain — and Lee Hendrie believes it’s a risk worth taking.
