Everton lead race to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap

Everton are leading the race to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap this summer, with Football Place understanding David Moyes' side are currently the favourites to secure a permanent deal.

The Toffees have revived their long-standing interest in the England forward after Chelsea decided they are willing to listen to offers just 12 months after bringing him to Stamford Bridge.

While several Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation, Everton are believed to be in the strongest position as they continue searching for a proven centre-forward.

Moyes has admired Delap for some time.

Everton explored a move while the striker was still at Ipswich Town, but Chelsea ultimately activated the £30million release clause in his contract last summer.

The transfer has failed to develop as expected.

Delap struggled to establish himself during his first season in west London, scoring just two goals and providing three assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.

With Chelsea now reshaping their squad under Xabi Alonso, the 23-year-old has emerged as one of the players who could leave before the new campaign.

Football Place understands Everton are now leading the race for his signature.

Chelsea are open to a permanent transfer and hope to make a profit on the deal.

Sources indicate the Blues value Delap at around £40million, despite his difficult campaign at Stamford Bridge.

The striker found himself overshadowed by João Pedro, who finished the season with 20 goals, limiting Delap's opportunities to establish himself as Chelsea's first-choice striker.

Although Alonso's arrival could theoretically offer the forward a fresh start, the expectation is that Chelsea are prepared to sanction his departure if their valuation is met.

Everton are not without competition.

Newcastle United and Leeds United have both been credited with interest in Delap and are monitoring developments as the transfer window progresses.

However, Football Place understands Everton currently hold the advantage as Moyes looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.

The Scotland manager has been keen to add another senior striker and believes Delap still possesses the potential that made him one of England's most highly-rated young forwards.

Delap may not be the only player to move from Stamford Bridge to Merseyside this summer.

Chelsea are expected to oversee a significant squad overhaul, with several players available for transfer as Alonso reshapes the group.

Football Place understands winger Tyrique George remains another player Everton are monitoring after impressing during his loan spell at the club last season.

While defenders Benoît Badiashile and Axel Disasi are also expected to leave Chelsea, George currently appears the most likely additional arrival at Goodison Park.

Everton are expected to continue discussions as they look to secure Delap before rival Premier League clubs step up their interest. Chelsea's willingness to sell means negotiations could accelerate if their asking price is met.

Meanwhile, Everton's recruitment team will also continue assessing other opportunities at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea's summer rebuild gathers pace under Alonso.

Would Liam Delap be the striker Everton have been missing, or should David Moyes target a more experienced goalscorer this summer?