There are some within Chelsea that believe their transfer target can explode into a superstar like Cole Palmer if he comes to Stamford Bridge.
The Chelsea owners have had mixed success in the transfer market recently, but Cole Palmer is the obvious success story they can boast about.
Palmer, 22, has gone from a Manchester City squad player to a household name since he joined the Blues in 2023.
The English attacking midfielder often looks a class above the rest of his teammates with what he does on the football pitch. For example, Ally McCoist lauded Palmer as a “different level” when it comes to his awareness of space.
Palmer’s connection with Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is a key part of the team’s attack. However, there are widespread transfer rumours about the club pursuing a new centre-forward this summer.
Chelsea reckon Liam Delap can follow Cole Palmer trajectory
Ipswich Town frontman Liam Delap, who plays for England’s Under-21s side, has been heavily linked with a possible move to Stamford Bridge in recent weeks.
According to TEAMtalk, it’s becoming more likely that Chelsea will prioritise the signing of Delap at the end of the season.
Apparently, the Blues hierarchy are intrigued about reuniting the 22-year-old striker with Palmer because the pair previously played together in Man City’s academy.
The report says that there is a growing belief that Delap could follow a ‘similar trajectory’ to Palmer with them. Also, Chelsea are confident the young centre-forward can step up to the pressure of an elite club after studying his style of play and physicality.
Even though Ipswich look destined for Premier League relegation this season, Delap has still impressed with his performances leading the line.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists | Shots | Shots on target | Chances created |
| 28 | 10 | 2 | 58 | 27 | 20 |
Delap is intrigued by joining Chelsea amid mounting interest. Regardless, he’s too good to be playing in the Championship next season with Ipswich.
What Enzo Maresca thinks about Liam Delap
Like Palmer, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca also knows Delap already quite well after coaching him at Man City as a youngster.
It was claimed in February that Maresca keeps mentioning Delap during transfer meetings at Chelsea. Therefore, could we soon see a reunion in West London?
Speaking back in December, the Blues head coach raved about Ipswich star Delap. Maresca told BBC Sport: “Liam is a fantastic player for his age. We spent one year together and he scored 22/24 goals – he’s a very good striker. He works hard on and off the ball – he understands the game and can score goals.”
Based off Chelsea’s recent transfer strategy, fans shouldn’t be surprised if Delap is the type of profile they bring in because he’s a young talent with room to develop.
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