Chelsea set Liam Delap asking price as Newcastle and Everton weigh summer moves

Chelsea have reportedly placed a £40 million price tag on Liam Delap amid growing interest from Newcastle United and Everton.

The striker arrived at Stamford Bridge in a £30 million move from Ipswich Town last summer after attracting widespread attention following an impressive Premier League campaign. However, his first season in west London failed to meet expectations, prompting speculation about a possible departure just 12 months after his arrival.

With Chelsea potentially prepared to sanction the sale of one of their forwards, Delap has emerged as a player attracting interest from elsewhere in the Premier League.

Chelsea moved decisively to secure Delap's signature following a breakthrough season at Ipswich, where he scored 12 Premier League goals despite the club's relegation.

The expectation was that the former Manchester City academy graduate would continue his upward trajectory at Stamford Bridge.

Instead, the campaign proved difficult.

Delap managed just two goals in 41 appearances across all competitions and spent much of the season operating behind fellow summer signing João Pedro in the pecking order.

That disappointing return has inevitably led to questions regarding his long-term future at the club.

According to reports, both Newcastle United and Everton have expressed interest in signing the 23-year-old if Chelsea become willing sellers.

Newcastle are understood to be searching for additional firepower after an inconsistent campaign from Nick Woltemade. Signed as Alexander Isak's replacement, the Germany international struggled for consistency after a bright start and was frequently deployed in deeper roles by Eddie Howe.

Delap is viewed as a player who could provide a more traditional central striking option.

Everton, meanwhile, have long admired the forward.

The Toffees were interested before his move to Chelsea and could revisit the situation as David Moyes looks to strengthen his attacking department. Uncertainty surrounding Thierno Barry's future has only increased the need for additional options.

Opinions regarding Delap's next move remain mixed.

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy believes incoming Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso should retain the striker and assess him properly before making a decision.

Murphy argues Delap offers a different profile to João Pedro and possesses qualities currently lacking elsewhere in Chelsea's attack.

Former Chelsea midfielder Andy Townsend has taken a far less optimistic view, reportedly suggesting the striker has yet to demonstrate the level required to succeed consistently at the highest level.

The differing opinions reflect the uncertainty surrounding Delap's development.

At 23, he remains young enough to improve significantly, but the pressure to deliver results at a club like Chelsea leaves little room for prolonged struggles.

Chelsea's stance may become clearer once Alonso completes a full assessment of his squad during pre-season. The new manager's opinion could prove decisive in determining whether Delap remains part of the club's long-term plans.

For Newcastle and Everton, the situation is worth monitoring closely. However, both clubs may hesitate if Chelsea refuse to lower their £40 million valuation. As things stand, Delap's future remains uncertain, but the coming weeks should provide greater clarity on whether his Stamford Bridge career will continue or come to an unexpectedly early end.

Would Newcastle or Everton be the better destination for Liam Delap if Chelsea decide to sell this summer?