Chelsea look as if they’ve found their man when it comes to transfer targets in the striker position ahead of the start of the new season.
The Blues are reportedly close to adding Liam Delap to their ranks as his relegation release clause makes him a very desirable target for a number of big clubs.
Enzo Maresca is a huge fan of Delap after working with him at Manchester City, and it can be believed that the striker role is very much up for grabs due to the form of Nicolas Jackson.
The Senegal international scored in the Conference League final, but has underwhelmed in the second half of the season as well as injuries and suspensions.
Liam Delap’s favourite shirt number could be available at Chelsea
If Delap does make the move to Stamford Bridge, there will be a lot of conversation over what shirt number he takes.
The Englishman could have a crack at breaking the number nine curse of West London, something which Jackson opted against doing.
However, an opportunity may crop up for him to take the number 19, which he currently wears at Ipswich Town. That shirt is currently occupied by Jadon Sancho.
The winger is on loan from Manchester United, and made a statement to the decision makers with a stunning goal in the Conference League final.
Before Sancho, the number was occupied by Pedro Neto and Armando Broja, following the departure of Mason Mount.
Jadon Sancho’s Chelsea future
The future of Sancho has been a decisive topic ever since it was revealed that Chelsea could pay a small fee to opt out of signing him on a permanent deal at the end of his loan spell.
Joe Cole believes Chelsea should sign Sancho for the £25m fee after his contributions this season, capped off with his goal in Poland.
According to Fabrizio Romano, there is so far no clarity over Sancho’s status as a Chelsea player next season, with that always likely to be solved after the season officially ended.
For his price tag, there are few options out there as good as the United man, although the Blues are looking out there for a right-footed left-winger.
