‘It’s a curse!’ – Liam Delap warned by ex-Chelsea star that Stamford Bridge transfer may be too much for him as Ipswich striker snubs Man Utd and Newcastle interest
Liam Delap Warned by Emmanuel Petit That Chelsea Move May Be Too Much, After Turning Down Manchester United and Newcastle
What’s the Situation?
Liam Delap is reportedly on the verge of securing a high-profile transfer to Chelsea this summer. The 22-year-old striker is said to be eager to join Enzo Fernandez and the rest of the Blues squad.
Chelsea is pushing to finalize the deal before their involvement in the upcoming Club World Cup, with negotiations over personal terms currently ongoing.
The Bigger Picture
Delap, who played for Ipswich Town this season and is a product of Manchester City’s academy, had a standout year individually.
Despite Ipswich’s relegation to the Championship, he managed to score 12 goals and provide two assists during the 2024–25 campaign.
His performances have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle United.
Petit’s Warning
Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has expressed concern over Delap’s potential move to Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to PokerStrategy, the World Cup winner cautioned that the jump from Ipswich to Chelsea could prove too demanding for a player still developing his top-flight credentials.
“Delap is talented and had a strong season at Ipswich, but moving to Chelsea is a massive leap,” Petit said. “That number nine role comes with enormous pressure. Chelsea needs a striker who can deliver 25 goals a season. I’m not convinced Delap is ready for that yet.”
A Historical Concern
Petit’s warning is rooted in Chelsea’s long-standing difficulties in finding a consistent and effective centre-forward.
The club has seen several big-name strikers — including Fernando Torres, Radamel Falcao, Gonzalo Higuain, and Alvaro Morata — struggle to meet expectations.
So daunting has the role become that Chelsea left the number nine shirt vacant during the 2014–15 and 2016–17 seasons, highlighting the psychological pressure associated with the position.
What’s Next?
Delap was previously thought to favor a move to Manchester United, who had tracked him for some time.
However, Chelsea’s qualification for next season’s Champions League — unlike United, who missed out after a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham — appears to have shifted his preference.
If he does complete the move, Delap will have to prove he’s capable of meeting the high expectations that come with playing for a top Premier League club — especially in a role that has challenged even seasoned professionals.
