Josh Hart has joined the discussion surrounding Liam Delap’s reported move from Chelsea to Nottingham Forest, joking that the Blues should quickly accept the substantial transfer fee.
According to reports, Nottingham Forest are close to completing a deal for the 23-year-old striker, with Chelsea reportedly set to receive £45 million. The fee caught the attention of Hart, who reacted to the reported figure on social media.
The New York Knicks star wrote: “Does that say 45m?!?! Take it and RUN”, highlighting his surprise at the amount Chelsea could receive for Delap.
Chelsea could make a £15 million profit on Delap
Chelsea signed Delap from Ipswich Town for a reported £30 million last summer after Ipswich were relegated from the Premier League.
However, Delap struggled to establish himself as a consistent attacking threat during his time at Stamford Bridge. He scored three goals and registered five assists in 43 appearances for Chelsea.
If the reported £45 million transfer to Nottingham Forest is completed, Chelsea would make a potential £15 million profit on the striker despite his disappointing campaign.
Delap’s journey from Manchester City to Chelsea
Delap came through Manchester City’s youth system and made six senior appearances for the club before moving elsewhere in search of regular first-team football.
His breakthrough campaign came at Ipswich Town during the 2024-25 season. The striker scored 12 goals in 40 appearances despite Ipswich ultimately suffering relegation.
His performances convinced Chelsea to invest in him, but the move did not produce the expected results during his first season in west London.
Nottingham Forest move could offer Delap a fresh start
A move to Nottingham Forest would give Delap an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and rediscover the form he showed at Ipswich.
At 23, the forward still has considerable time to develop, and regular opportunities could be important as he looks to establish himself again in the Premier League.
For Chelsea, meanwhile, the reported £45 million fee would represent a significant return on an investment that did not work out as planned.
Joao Pedro dismisses Chelsea’s number nine shirt curse
The discussion around Chelsea’s forwards also comes as Joao Pedro has taken over the club’s famous number nine shirt.
The Brazilian forward scored just 31 seconds into Chelsea’s opening Premier League game of the season against Fulham, immediately making an impression while wearing the number.
Several prominent strikers have struggled while wearing Chelsea’s number nine shirt, including Fernando Torres, Gonzalo Higuain, Radamel Falcao and Romelu Lukaku.
Joao Pedro, however, said he does not believe shirt numbers determine a player’s performance. He explained that his focus is simply on doing his job and scoring as many goals as possible.
After wearing the number 20 shirt during his first season, Joao Pedro switched to number nine this campaign following a productive debut season. He finished the previous season with 23 goals and nine assists in 53 appearances for Chelsea.
FAQs
How much could Chelsea receive for Liam Delap?
Chelsea are reportedly set to receive £45 million if Liam Delap completes his move to Nottingham Forest.
What did Josh Hart say about the Liam Delap transfer?
Josh Hart jokingly reacted to the reported fee by saying Chelsea should “Take it and RUN.”
How much did Chelsea pay for Liam Delap?
Chelsea reportedly paid £30 million to sign Delap from Ipswich Town.
How did Liam Delap perform at Chelsea?
Delap scored three goals and provided five assists in 43 appearances for Chelsea.
How much profit could Chelsea make on Delap?
If the £45 million deal is completed, Chelsea could make a reported £15 million profit on their initial investment.
Which club is Liam Delap reportedly joining?
Nottingham Forest are reportedly close to completing a deal for the Chelsea striker.
Who is Chelsea’s current number nine?
Joao Pedro has taken over Chelsea’s number nine shirt this season.
How many goals did Joao Pedro score last season for Chelsea?
Joao Pedro scored 23 goals and provided nine assists in 53 appearances during his debut season with Chelsea.
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