- Liam Delap rejected Everton to join Chelsea last season
- Delap has just 1 goal this season for Chelsea in 26 appearances
- Pat Nevin believes Liam Delap is a perfect fit for Everton
Everton’s need for a consistent number nine remains. Beto has shown form, scoring nine Premier League goals this season, but his contract is set to expire at the end of next season. Thierno Barry has been inconsistent. Although he has eight goals, his relationship with supporters has soured and he has been largely inconsistent despite recent goals.
A reliable, young striker who can hold the ball up, run the channels, and bring others into play is a priority. One name that keeps resurfacing is Chelsea’s, Liam Delap.
The 23‑year‑old rejected Everton last summer to join Chelsea, but his move has backfired. After a brilliant season with Ipswich Town, where he scored 12 goals from 32 starts in a relegation‑threatened side, Delap has endured a miserable campaign at Stamford Bridge. He has struggled for minutes and goals, and a fresh start is needed.
Nevin: ‘Everton would be the obvious place’
Former Everton star Pat Nevin has no doubt where Delap should go. Speaking to Grosvenor Casinos, Nevin said: “I don’t see him going back to Ipswich. Everton would be the obvious place. Absolutely nailed on. I’m not saying it’s a done deal, but I think Everton want him and I think it would be brilliant for everyone. And it’s a safer bet for him.”
Nevin explained why Liam Delap fits Everton’s system, focusing on more than just goals. “Delap is nailed on for Everton. There’s technical reasons why. When people talk about the number of goals scored, it’s actually not exactly about that for Everton. You need a certain type of player to hold up the ball, to run the channels, to stretch the game so that three quality players behind you – and they have got brilliant players behind them – get a chance to shine.”
“Delap would be perfect. I don’t know if they’ll get him, but Chelsea’s not the right place for him.”
Why Liam Delap makes sense for Everton?
David Moyes has built a team that thrives on hard work, physicality, and intelligent attacking play. Beto has found form this season and is a decent option but he needs competition week in week out. Also, his contract expires at the end of next season, so his future creates uncertainty as well. Barry has shown glimpses but lacks consistency and fan support.
Delap, at 23, offers a long‑term option for Everton with Premier League experience. His hold‑up play, willingness to run channels, and ability to bring creative players like Iliman Ndiaye and Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall (and maybe Jack Grealish) into the game would be invaluable.
Chelsea’s system has not suited him. A transfer to a club where he is trusted and valued could reignite his career. Everton have been here before. Delap turned them down once. But with his situation at Chelsea collapsing, the timing may now be right.
Nevin’s endorsement makes sense. He understands Everton’s needs and Delap’s qualities. As the summer window approaches, the message from the former Blue is clear. Delap is a nailed-on transfer for Everton. Now it is over to Everton and The Friedkin Group to make it happen.
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