Nottingham Forest in direct talks to sign Chelsea striker
August 25, 2026 03:37
Nottingham Forest are reported to have opened formal negotiations with Chelsea over the transfer of striker Liam Delap, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano. The talks come after a difficult debut season for Delap at Chelsea, in which he managed two goals in all competitions.
EyeFootball says Forest are understood to be leading the race for the former Ipswich Town forward, with discussions described as advanced. Sources suggest a move could be completed following Chelsea’s fixture at Fulham at Craven Cottage.
KEY CONTEXT
- Delap was placed on the transfer market by Chelsea after a low-scoring season.
- Chelsea have been seeking a transfer fee in the region of £50m, though other reports indicate a fee around £40m including add-ons might be sufficient.
- Italian side Como showed interest in Delap earlier in the summer; Como are participating in this season’s Champions League.
- The summer window closes on September 1, 2026, creating a limited window to finalise any deal.
WHY IT MATTERS
If completed, a transfer would allow Delap to move on from a season with limited returns and provide Nottingham Forest with a forward they have actively pursued. For Chelsea, a sale would be a move to cash in on a player who has been made available. The fee discussions — reported at either c.£50m or nearer £40m with add-ons — will determine whether the clubs can bridge the gap before the window shuts.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Chelsea accept a package reported to be around £40m plus add-ons or hold out for closer to £50m.
- If Forest can conclude terms quickly, with reports indicating a possible finalisation after Chelsea’s game at Fulham.
- Any formal confirmation or denial from the clubs involved; Fabrizio Romano is the named source for the transfer talks.
- Whether Como or other suitors re-enter the picture before the September 1 deadline.
KEY FACTS
- Fabrizio Romano reported Nottingham Forest have begun formal negotiations with Chelsea for Liam Delap.
- Delap scored two goals across all competitions for Chelsea last season.
- Chelsea’s reported valuation: around £50m; some reports suggest ~£40m with add-ons could be acceptable.
- Delap is a former Ipswich Town player.
- Como showed interest earlier this summer and are competing in the Champions League.
- The summer transfer window closes on September 1, 2026.