Everton eye Liam Delap as David Moyes targets Beto upgrade

Everton are continuing their search for a new centre-forward this summer, with Chelsea striker Liam Delap emerging as a leading target as David Moyes looks to solve the goalscoring issues that hampered the Toffees last season.

The Merseyside club managed just 47 Premier League goals during the 2025/26 campaign, one of the league's lowest totals, and further uncertainty has emerged following reports that Iliman Ndiaye has agreed personal terms with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

With attacking reinforcements high on the agenda, Everton are assessing several options, and Delap remains firmly on their shortlist.

Despite finishing as Everton's leading Premier League scorer with nine goals last season, Beto's long-term future remains uncertain.

The Guinea-Bissau international has scored 20 league goals in 97 appearances since arriving from Udinese and has struggled to establish himself as the consistent focal point Everton hoped for.

Reports have also linked the 28-year-old with a move to Nottingham Forest, raising the possibility that Everton could cash in if a suitable offer arrives.

A departure would leave Moyes with room to reshape his forward line ahead of the new campaign.

According to TEAMtalk, Everton have already held discussions with Liam Delap's representatives over a potential move from Chelsea.

Leeds United and Newcastle United are also said to be monitoring the 23-year-old, while Chelsea are reportedly seeking a fee of around £40 million.

Although Delap endured a difficult first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring just once in the Premier League, Everton are believed to value the qualities that made him one of the division's most promising young strikers before his move to west London.

During his breakthrough campaign with Ipswich Town, Delap scored 12 Premier League goals, demonstrating the finishing ability that attracted Chelsea's attention.

Delap would offer Moyes a different type of centre-forward to Beto.

While both possess the physical attributes to lead the line, Delap is regarded as a more mobile striker who is comfortable making runs behind opposing defences and linking play in attacking areas.

His ability to retain possession, create opportunities for teammates and carry the ball forward could provide Everton with a more varied attacking threat, particularly in Moyes' preferred system.

However, a deal would not come without risk. Delap's limited impact at Chelsea means Everton would be investing heavily in a player looking to rediscover the form that impressed during his time at Ipswich.

Even so, with Moyes eager to improve a frontline that lacked consistency last season, the England Under-21 international remains one of the club's most intriguing transfer options.

Everton are expected to continue assessing striker targets before deciding whether to make a formal approach for Delap. Any move could depend on outgoing transfers, with Beto's future and the reported interest from Nottingham Forest likely to influence the club's plans during the remainder of the transfer window.