Forest is in negotiations to sign Liam Delap.

Nottingham Forest is currently in talks with Chelsea over a potential transfer for striker Liam Delap. The 23-year-old, valued at £50 million, is now training separately from Chelsea’s first team. Forest, which has already bolstered its squad this summer with signings like Ousmane Diomande and Xaver Schlager, could further strengthen its attack with Delap.

 

A possible departure before the transfer window closes

Liam Delap, who was left out of Chelsea’s squad for their Premier League match against Fulham, has seen his status change in recent days. The number 9 shirt has been handed to Joao Pedro, signaling a complicated situation for the young striker. His departure aligns with Chelsea’s need to reduce their senior squad, which now stands at 39 contracted players. The Blues are aiming to finalize several sales or loans before the transfer window closes on September 1. Delap’s repeated injuries—particularly to his shoulder and hamstrings—limited him to just one Premier League goal last season. His £30 million move from Ipswich Town to Chelsea in 2023 has yet to deliver on its promise, despite his recognized potential.

Increased competition at Forest

If the deal goes through, Liam Delap would bolster Nottingham Forest’s attack, currently featuring Chris Wood and Igor Jesus. His arrival would give the manager another option up front, especially after Forest’s busy summer of transfers. The club has already sold Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for a club-record £116 million and Taiwo Awoniyi to Coventry City for £9 million. Talks between the two clubs appear to be progressing positively, with both sets of executives maintaining a constructive working relationship. Forest, which is aiming for an ambitious rebuild, could benefit from Delap’s quality in the coming months. The exact nature of the deal—whether a permanent transfer or a loan with an option to buy—remains to be confirmed. Negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes as the summer transfer window nears its conclusion.