Como turn to Liam Delap after €35m+ Moise Kean bid rejected

Como have opened talks with Chelsea over a move for Liam Delap after struggling to make a breakthrough in their pursuit of Fiorentina striker Moise Kean.

Cesc Fabregas is still pushing for a major addition to his attack despite an ambitious summer of recruitment, and Delap has now emerged as a serious alternative.

According to Sky Sport Italia, initial contacts with Chelsea have already taken place, with discussions currently centred around a loan which could see the Blues continue paying part of Delap's salary.

Como have already strengthened heavily as they prepare to compete domestically and in Europe, but Fabregas believes another high-level forward is required.

The objective is not simply to add depth. Fabregas wants a striker capable of immediately competing for a starting position and potentially making a major difference to his team.

Moise Kean has been the club's preferred target, but negotiations with Fiorentina have proven difficult.

Como have reportedly made two offers for the Italy international, with their latest proposal reaching €35m plus bonuses.

Fiorentina sporting director Fabio Paratici rejected that bid, leaving Como searching for alternatives while the Kean situation remains unresolved.

That search has led them to Delap.

Como already have an established line of communication with Chelsea following the deal which brought Trevoh Chalobah to Fabregas' squad.

Sporting director Carlalberto Ludi is now attempting to use that relationship to explore another agreement with the Premier League club.

Delap is available just one year after Chelsea spent around €40m to sign him from Ipswich Town, and Como have made their first approach.

Sky Sport Italia reports that discussions are currently based around a loan deal with Chelsea covering part of the striker's wages.

The first contacts are described as positive enough for Como to continue exploring the possibility.

There is no indication yet that Como have abandoned their pursuit of Kean completely.

However, Fiorentina's refusal to accept €35m plus bonuses has forced the club to establish another route, and Delap is now developing into a concrete alternative.

A loan could also allow Como to bring in a high-level striker without committing another substantial permanent transfer fee following their extensive summer spending.

For Chelsea, meanwhile, it would provide a solution for a player they are prepared to move on only a year after his arrival.

Much will now depend on whether the clubs can agree the financial details and whether Delap is prepared to continue his career in Serie A.

Como are expected to continue exploring the conditions of a loan deal for Delap while keeping an eye on the Kean situation.

Fiorentina's rejection of €35m plus bonuses means a breakthrough for Kean will require Como to improve their offer or convince the Italian club to soften their position.

With initial Delap talks already underway, however, Fabregas now has a genuine alternative as Como push to complete one more major attacking signing before the window closes.