You Won’t Believe Who Everton Are Desperately Chasing This Summer – ‘Phenomenal’ Forward to Transform Toffees into TITLE CONTENDERS Under Moyes?! (Report)
Everton are reportedly tracking Chelsea striker Liam Delap as they begin planning for the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Merseyside club are said to be one of several Premier League sides keeping an eye on the England Under-21 international, who has endured a difficult first season at Stamford Bridge since completing a £30 million move from Ipswich Town last summer.
Chelsea invested heavily in the 22-year-old after his impressive spell with the Tractor Boys, but his future is already the subject of debate following a slow start in west London.
Delap has managed just two goals in 22 appearances across all competitions and has found himself out of favour in recent weeks, with head coach Liam Rosenior leaving him on the bench for the Blues’ last four Premier League fixtures.
Reports suggest the remainder of the campaign will play a decisive role in shaping Delap’s long-term prospects at Chelsea.
With Strasbourg forward Emmanuel Emegha tipped to arrive in the summer, competition for places is expected to intensify, potentially pushing Delap further down the attacking hierarchy.
So far this season, he has largely played a supporting role to fellow summer signing Joao Pedro.
The Brazilian has enjoyed a productive campaign, contributing nine goals and four assists in 25 league outings, and has established himself as Rosenior’s preferred option in attack.
Should Chelsea opt to part ways with Delap just a year after securing his signature, interest is unlikely to be in short supply.
Everton, along with Manchester United and Newcastle United, are all believed to be monitoring developments closely in case the Blues become open to offers.
Meanwhile, Everton could also oversee changes within their own squad. Reports indicate the club may look to offload Dwight McNeil in the summer after a proposed move to Crystal Palace collapsed late in the winter window, despite a deal sheet being submitted.
McNeil has struggled to cement a regular starting role under David Moyes and has yet to score in 18 appearances this season, including 14 in the Premier League.
