adminEverton have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap, with talks already taking place over a potential transfer.
The Toffees have been busy in the transfer market this summer, completing five additions as David Moyes looks to strengthen his squad. Merlin Röhl, Hayden Hackney, Christian Nørgaard, Brennan Johnson and Tyrique George have all arrived at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with much of the focus so far centred on improving the midfield.
Moyes can now turn his attention towards adding more firepower in attack, and Delap could be an appealing option. The England striker impressed during his time at Ipswich Town, where journalist Jacob Schneider previously described him as “sensational.”
Delap enjoyed an impressive first Premier League campaign with Ipswich, scoring 12 goals in the top flight. That tally was three more than Beto managed for Everton last season, while Thierno Barry finished the campaign with eight league goals.
However, Delap’s first season at Stamford Bridge failed to live up to expectations. The 23-year-old found the net just once last term, leaving Chelsea open to the possibility of allowing him to leave this summer. Nottingham Forest are also believed to have shown interest.
Everton Leading the Race for Delap
Despite competition from other clubs, Everton currently appear to be leading the chase for Delap. According to TEAMtalk, the Merseyside club have already held discussions over a potential deal.
Manchester United and Newcastle United have also been contacted regarding the striker, but Everton remain ahead of their rivals at this stage.
A potential move could depend on Everton first making room in their squad by selling one of their existing forwards.
Which Everton Striker Could Leave?
Beto
Beto finished last season with nine Premier League goals, one more than Barry, despite frequently being used from the bench. He played 1,565 minutes across the campaign.
However, his overall Everton record of 25 goals in 111 appearances has been underwhelming, meaning the club could potentially be willing to part ways with the striker this summer.
Thierno Barry
Barry could arguably command greater interest in the transfer market because of his age, with the Frenchman still only 23.
However, his numbers were less impressive than Beto’s last season. Barry averaged 0.38 goals per 90 minutes in the Premier League, compared with 0.52 for the Guinea-Bissau international.
With neither of Everton’s current strikers establishing themselves as a reliable long-term solution, Moyes could benefit significantly from bringing in another forward before the September 1 deadline.
The Toffees are also looking to strengthen defensively, with a new right-back remaining on their transfer wishlist. Arsenal defender Ben White is reportedly a target, while Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz is another option being considered.
Palace could be willing to sell the Colombian for around £25 million, giving Everton another potential route to strengthening their defence before the transfer window closes.
admin
