Fabrizio Romano Reveals the Three Big Reasons Liam Delap Snubbed Manchester United for Chelsea Move

Liam Delap has turned down Manchester United and decided to join Chelsea this summer – and now, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has explained exactly why.

With the transfer window about to open, both Premier League clubs were fighting to sign the 21-year-old striker, who impressed last season at Ipswich Town. Delap had emerged as one of United’s top targets as new manager Ruben Amorim looks to rebuild the team’s attack. But Chelsea have won the race for his signature – and Romano says three main factors made all the difference.

The biggest reason behind Delap’s choice? Chelsea’s qualification for the Champions League. Romano confirmed that playing in Europe’s top competition was a “key factor” in the striker’s decision to choose the Blues over United, who failed to qualify.

Delap wants to challenge himself against the best in the world, and Chelsea’s place in next season’s Champions League made the offer too good to refuse.

The second reason Romano revealed was the long-term deal Chelsea offered. The Blues have built a reputation in recent years for giving out lengthy contracts, often lasting eight to ten years. While Romano didn’t specify the exact length of Delap’s deal, he did confirm that the security and commitment Chelsea showed in the offer played a big part in convincing the young striker.

Chelsea’s willingness to invest in youth and plan for the future clearly appealed to Delap, who sees the club as a place where he can grow and develop long-term.

The third key factor? New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. Romano stated that Delap’s existing relationship with Maresca from their time together at Manchester City was crucial. Maresca worked with the youth setup at City, and Delap thrived under his guidance. That familiar face in the Chelsea dugout gave Delap the extra confidence he needed to make the switch.

With Maresca now in charge at Stamford Bridge, Delap is walking into a setup that already knows how to get the best out of him.

Missing out on Delap will sting for United, who are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements. Matheus Cunha is reportedly close to joining, but Delap was viewed as a promising long-term option.

Still, United manager Ruben Amorim has made it clear he only wants players who are fully committed to playing for the badge — not just for the lure of European football.

“If a player only wants to come to Manchester United to play Champions League, then he will not come,” Amorim said recently. “We want players who want to represent United.”

Now, the Red Devils will be forced to look at other targets as they continue their search for a new striker this summer.

Delap’s move to Chelsea is a major step up after a strong season with Ipswich, and now he’ll be aiming to break into a squad packed with young talent and guided by a coach who already believes in him.