Chelsea are reportedly interested in Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, though they may face competition from Manchester City, despite Pep Guardiola’s side having sold the forward during the summer transfer window.

Delap has enjoyed an impressive start to life at Portman Road, netting six goals in 11 appearances for Ipswich, who were promoted to the Premier League this season. His performances have caught the eye of Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, as the Blues look to bolster their attacking options.

In the summer, Chelsea attempted to sign Victor Osimhen to address their lack of firepower but failed to finalise a deal before the window closed. The Nigerian international subsequently joined Galatasaray on loan, where he has also been in fine form.

According to The i, Delap has now emerged as a key target for Chelsea, with the club cooling their interest in Osimhen. The 21-year-old forward has ranked highly in Chelsea's advanced scouting metrics, with his movement and physicality drawing admiration at Stamford Bridge. However, Ipswich, who are battling relegation, are unlikely to part with their top scorer in January without a significant offer.

Chelsea have a history of spending big in the transfer market and are reportedly seeking a younger, more affordable option than Osimhen, one who would align with the club’s wage structure. Delap fits this profile, but the situation is complicated by Manchester City’s £20 million buy-back clause, which allows them to re-sign the striker if desired.

This clause could prove pivotal for City, who may view Delap as a cost-effective and homegrown option to provide cover for Erling Haaland. With Julian Alvarez having departed for Atlético Madrid in an £82 million summer transfer, Guardiola’s side lack a direct replacement for the Argentine. While Phil Foden and Oscar Bobb have occasionally filled in as central forwards, City could seek additional depth in case Haaland sustains a long-term injury.

Despite the potential lure of City, Delap may hesitate to return to the Etihad only to serve as Haaland’s understudy. Similarly, Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson has been in strong form, which could limit Delap’s opportunities at Stamford Bridge should he make the move.

Chelsea are said to have alternative targets if Delap either returns to City or remains with Ipswich. Although Christopher Nkunku and João Félix prefer deeper roles, Newcastle United's Alexander Isak is reportedly not on Chelsea’s radar.

The Swedish international, who is also of interest to Arsenal, remains committed to Newcastle, according to reports. While no agreement has yet been reached regarding an extension to his current contract, which runs until 2028, Isak reaffirmed his desire to stay at St James’ Park during the recent international break.

For now, Chelsea’s interest in Delap signals their intent to secure a young and dynamic striker, but they face tough challenges from both Ipswich’s reluctance to sell and Manchester City’s buy-back clause.