Everton are keen to bolster attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window as they look to challenge for European football next season.
Everton’s summer recruitment plans are taking shape. David Moyes has steadied the ship at Hill Dickinson Stadium, guiding the Toffees to eighth in the Premier League table with genuine hopes of European qualification for the first time since 2017/18. The Friedkin Group are ready to invest, and one position is receiving particular attention.
Striker remains an area where David Moyes wants more. Thierno Barry and Beto have shared duties this season, but neither has fully convinced as the long-term solution. The Everton manager prefers a centre-forward who can physically dominate defenders, occupy back lines, and provide a platform for others. That profile has led him back to a player he wanted 12 months ago.
Delap’s Chelsea struggle opens door for Everton
Liam Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town last summer for around £30m. At the time, it looked like a sensible move. He had scored 12 Premier League goals in a struggling Ipswich side, showing he could be a force in the top flight when deployed in a system that suited him.
Things have not gone to plan at Stamford Bridge. The 23-year-old has managed just two goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season. He has started only one Premier League game under Liam Rosenior and finds himself firmly behind Joao Pedro in the pecking order. As per reports from TeamTalk recently reported that Delap is “fighting for his future” at Chelsea, with the remainder of the season likely to determine whether he is part of the long-term project.
Chelsea are now ready to consider offers. Reports indicate they hope to recoup as much of the £30m fee as possible, though a final decision on his sale has not yet been made. Everton, who were willing to match that release clause last summer and pushed hard to convince Delap to join, are watching closely.
Why Delap fits the Moyes blueprint?
Delap’s physical profile aligns perfectly with what Moyes wants from his number nine. He is hard-working, aggressive, and capable of unsettling defenders. One former coach described him as having “extraordinary physical capacity” with shots “like rockets”, adding that defenders “would be nervous about coming into contact with him because of how powerful he is”.
The timing could work in Everton’s favour. Beto has fallen behind Barry in the pecking order this season, and the Toffees were open to selling him in January, provided they could find a replacement. Delap would fill that void and bring Premier League experience despite his youth.
Manchester United and Newcastle are also monitoring the situation, meaning Everton may face competition. But the Merseyside club have an advantage as they tried last summer and know the player, and they believe Goodison Park could offer the stage he needs to rediscover his best form. For Delap, who chose Chelsea over Everton 12 months ago, a second chance on Merseyside might be exactly what his career requires.
