"One Extra Key Detail" Revealed by Journalist in Chelsea’s Attempts to Sign New Striker

As Chelsea ramp up their search for a new striker ahead of a crucial summer window, one extra key detail has emerged — a detail that could tip the scales in their pursuit of highly-rated forward Liam Delap.

Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips, writing via his Substack, has confirmed that the Blues have not only held fresh talks with the Manchester City striker but are also prepared to increase their wage offer in order to land him.

This revelation comes amid growing competition from Manchester United, who are also pushing hard to convince Delap to make the switch. Delap, who has impressed on loan at Hull City this season, is expected to make a final decision shortly after the season ends.

Chelsea Step Up Their Efforts
Phillips’ report adds weight to the belief that Chelsea are making Delap a serious target. It’s understood that the club’s recruitment team has been in direct contact with the striker, with further meetings already scheduled. But the significant new development is Chelsea’s willingness to improve their wage proposal — an attempt to match or even better what United are offering.

Sources close to the situation confirm that the financial package on the table from Chelsea is now more competitive than it was in previous discussions, as the Blues aim to edge ahead in the race.

Delap reportedly prefers to remain in Manchester, largely for personal reasons. However, Phillips insists this isn’t a decisive factor: “It’s not the be-all and end-all,” he wrote. “He’s been open to talks with Chelsea and other clubs outside Manchester as well.”

This openness gives Chelsea a real chance, especially if they can sell Delap on the long-term vision at Stamford Bridge — a project still focused on developing young, hungry talent for the future.

While several names remain on Chelsea’s shortlist — including Victor Osimhen, Benjamin Sesko, and Hugo Ekitike — Delap represents a younger, potentially more long-term solution. At just 21, he fits the profile the club has prioritised under its new recruitment strategy.

With Champions League qualification still hanging in the balance and the club’s final league game of the season approaching, Chelsea know that any success in the transfer market will depend not only on their pitch but also on their ambition off it.

This one extra detail — an improved wage offer — may not seem dramatic on the surface. But in the delicate balance of modern transfer negotiations, it could prove to be the difference-maker.