- Newcastle United target Liam Delap
- Ex Ipswich Town man praised by Eddie Howe
- Stamford Bridge side might sell depending on incomings
As the summer transfer window is set to open, one of Newcastle United’s key areas to address once again is the striker position. Alexander Isak’s sale last summer opened the doors at St James’ Park for Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, though the pair have struggled.
The Daily Mail reports that one option the club like is Chelsea striker Liam Delap, although the noise from Stamford Bridge suggests he is not for sale this summer and would prefer to stay put.
There is a belief from the report that once the window opens and Chelsea begin reshuffling their squad, he could still become available, with a potential price tag of around £40 million.
Newcastle United former suitors of Liam Delap
It is no secret that Magpies boss Eddie Howe loves the look of the 23-year-old striker, having previously attempted to bring him to Tyneside during his time at Ipswich Town.
Speaking previously, Howe also praised Delap’s ability, saying he believes he can reach the very top.
The Magpies manager has said: “He’s had a very good season. Very strong, powerful runner. Knows where the goal is. He’s always had a lot of potential… a real threat.”
Instead, Delap opted to join Enzo Maresca’s side, although managerial changes followed shortly after. He was later replaced by Liam Rosenior. Across both spells, the common theme has been that the English forward was never seen as the first-choice option and, when given opportunities, has yet to fully convince.
Like Newcastle, Chelsea also face an uphill battle to secure European qualification this season, with the club currently hovering outside the top half of the table. If that remains the case, significant squad changes are expected, potentially including a decision on the 23-year-old.
Is Chelsea striker a step forward for Magpies?
Delap has come under scrutiny since his move to the capital, failing to replicate the form he showed at Portman Road.
Newcastle have made it clear that this season has been a setback, and they are determined to move forward rather than repeat past mistakes. That makes a move for the Chelsea forward increasingly unlikely.
While Wissa has faced criticism, he is still adapting to Howe’s system. William Osula has also impressed with three goals in his last four matches, and the Toon Army still hopes to see their German forward return to a central striker role.
The club already have enough attacking quality; the priority is getting more out of it. It is easy for a confident striker to lose form, but far harder for one lacking belief to rebuild it—especially in a new environment. That makes a move for Delap a major risk Newcastle can ill afford as they look to steady the ship around.
In other news, Newcastle United star sees loan extended amid Leeds United and Everton transfer links.
