Chelsea fend off Man United to make first summer signing

• Chelsea have signed striker Liam Delap from Ipswich on a deal until 2031 after triggering his £30 million release clause, making him their first summer signing.
• The agreement was reached last week, and Delap, an England under-21 international, can join immediately due to FIFA’s 10-day June transfer window, allowing him to participate in the Club World Cup in the United States.
• Delap expressed his excitement about joining Chelsea, citing the club's stature, trajectory, and the opportunity to develop and win trophies.
• Chelsea reportedly beat Manchester United to the signing, with the absence of European football for United being a significant factor in Delap's decision.
• Delap's arrival reunites him with Enzo Maresca, with whom he worked at Manchester City's under-23 team and senior squad, and addresses Chelsea's need for attacking reinforcements due to injuries and a lack of consistent goal-scoring support.

IN FULL

Chelsea complete signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich