Premier League club join crowded race for Chelsea attacker Liam Delap

Nottingham Forest have entered the race for Chelsea striker Liam Delap, adding another potential destination for the 23-year-old as his Stamford Bridge future becomes increasingly uncertain. Delap is expected to be allowed to leave Chelsea following a difficult first season in west London, when injuries and inconsistent form limited his impact.

Crucially, the England Under-21 international would prefer to remain in the Premier League, potentially giving Forest an advantage over Italian side Como.

Forest’s need for another forward has also increased after Taiwo Awoniyi completed a £9 million move to Coventry City.

Nottingham Forest have joined the Delap race

According to talkSPORT, Nottingham Forest have joined Everton and Newcastle United in showing interest in Delap.

Chelsea are now prepared to sell the striker for around £40 million, just one year after paying Ipswich Town £30m for him.

Delap scored only twice during his debut Chelsea campaign and has slipped further down the attacking hierarchy following Danny Welbeck’s arrival.

Como are also exploring a move, but Delap’s preference is understood to be staying in England.

Chelsea’s latest valuation represents an interesting development. Sky Sports previously reported that the Blues valued Delap at around £50m, suggesting their demands may have softened as the transfer deadline approaches.