After weeks of speculation, Chelsea officially secured the signing of the Ipswich striker in a £30 million deal.
The 22-year-old, a product of Manchester City’s academy, has committed to a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, keeping him at the club until 2031. ..Continue Reading
Delap impressed in his first full Premier League season, delivering 12 goals and two assists for Ipswich despite their struggles. His performances earned him a nomination for the Young Player of the Year award.
Manchester United was a strong contender in the race for his signature, but Chelsea’s Champions League qualification and the presence of Enzo Maresca—who previously worked with Delap at City—proved decisive in securing the move.
‘The most important thing for me last summer was going somewhere where I could play a lot of minutes,’ Delap told Chelsea’s official website.
‘That was the opportunity I felt I needed, to go and express myself and show the player I am. Ipswich gave me that opportunity, which was so important, and I’m very grateful for that.’
Delap has fond memories of watching the Blues as a youngster and is ‘hungry’ to help lead the club back to their former glory.
‘Growing up watching this club, I understand the stature of it and how incredible it has been over the years,’ he added.
‘I wanted to come here to win trophies. When I spoke to the club, everyone wanted to get back to the very top, and they have the quality and the players to do that.
‘The hunger and desire to keep adding trophies, to take the club back to where it belongs, that is the main objective.’
The England Under-21 international is pleased that his years of hard ‘graft’ while rising through the ranks have paid off.
‘Since I was eight or nine years old, I was focused on football,’ he went on.
‘I never wanted to do anything else, and I’ve given everything I could to make it happen.
‘It’s such a long and hard period and things can be tough for you, but I’ve always enjoyed it. I just love football; I’d be playing with my mates if I wasn’t a professional.
‘Fortunately, I’m alright at it – and I’m delighted that graft has worked out and I’m here now at Chelsea.’
After the transfer was confirmed by Chelsea, Delap took to Instagram to thank those who had supported him on his journey at Ipswich.
‘Thank you for everything, Ipswich Town. The team, manager, staff and club have been incredible from the moment I arrived,’ he wrote.
‘To the fans, I appreciate the support you gave me week in week out, from the stands at home and on the road. I’m sure this club will be back in the Premier League soon, where it belongs.
‘I’ll never forget my time at the Town! Now it’s time for a new challenge.’
