Everton target Chelsea forward Liam Delap in £30m summer transfer move
Everton have identified Chelsea striker Liam Delap as their primary summer transfer target as manager David Moyes looks to bolster his attacking options in a potential £30m deal.
The Toffees have enjoyed a strong debut campaign at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium and currently sit eighth in the Premier League table.
They remain just three points behind Brentford as the club continues to chase a European spot for next season.
However, Moyes is determined to strengthen his squad to maintain these standards and has pinpointed the centre-forward position as a priority area for improvement.
Moyes seeks striking solution
A new number nine is considered essential on Merseyside following the struggles of the current attacking options.
Beto and Thierno Barry have failed to make the position their own, scoring a combined total of just eight Premier League goals between them this term.
Moyes has reportedly made it clear that he wants Delap to lead his line, just 12 months after the player rejected a move to Everton in favour of Stamford Bridge.
The 23-year-old had joined the Blues following a successful stint with Ipswich Town after the west London club triggered his £30m release clause.
Chelsea open to recouping fee
The former Manchester City academy graduate has endured a difficult maiden season in the capital.
Delap has managed only one Premier League goal during a campaign disrupted by injuries and inconsistent performances.
Chelsea are now understood to be considering his long-term future, with Emmanuel Emegha set to join and Nicolas Jackson due to return from a loan spell.
Stamford Bridge officials are reportedly willing to sanction a departure if they can recoup the £30m fee originally paid for the forward.
Adding physical presence
Despite his recent struggles, the England youth international is viewed as an ideal fit for the tactical system deployed at Goodison Park.
Described as an “exceptional” talent, the striker offers the physical profile and work rate that Moyes typically demands from his forwards.
His ability to offer a direct goal threat and use his pace to run the channels would provide a different dimension to Everton’s transition play.
The Merseyside club believe a deal for the powerful attacker would represent a significant coup given his age and potential ceiling.