Nottingham Forest are in advanced talks with Chelsea to sign striker Liam Delap, according to a report from The New York Times. The 23-year-old forward has been a primary target for Forest for several weeks as they look to strengthen their attack.
Forest currently sit 15th in the Premier League after one game, with zero points and a goal difference of minus one following a single defeat. They are three points behind early leaders Brighton ahead of a challenging fixtures schedule that includes a trip to face Liverpool on August 29th. Securing a new forward is seen as important for improving their offensive output.
Why is Liam Delap a target for Forest?
Oliver Glasner has wanted a striker of Delap's profile added to his squad since his arrival. The player's physical attributes and goal record are believed to suit Glasner's tactical approach. Paul Taylor of The New York Times said, "Liam Delap is exactly the brand of striker that Oliver Glasner has wanted to see added to the Nottingham Forest ranks." Forest's interest dates back to his time at Ipswich Town, where he scored 12 goals in 37 league appearances during the 2024-25 season and was shortlisted for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.
Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich in June 2025 on a five-year contract but has found opportunities limited. He was training away from the first-team squad this summer, and Chelsea were prepared to sell a striker. His number nine shirt was given to Joao Pedro before last season, and he found himself behind the Brazilian in the pecking order under managers Enzo Maresca and later Liam Rosenior and interim coach Calum McFarlane.
Where would Delap fit in the current Forest squad?
Glasner has great faith in veteran forward Chris Wood, but the manager is keen to add a different type of attacking option. Swiss international Dan Ndoye, a player Glasner admires, is not considered comfortable operating as a central number nine. Youngster Igor Jesus impressed with five pre-season goals, but the club is looking for more established competition. Delap's potential arrival would provide a direct, physical presence similar to the role Jean-Philippe Mateta played for Glasner at Crystal Palace.
Forest have already been active in the transfer market, adding defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting CP for £35 million and midfielder Xaver Schlager on a free transfer. You can view the full squad for the current campaign. Integrating a new striker would be the next phase of their team building.
What are the next steps for this transfer?
Forest are reportedly in pole position to complete a deal for Delap, who has attracted Premier League interest. The main hurdle is negotiating terms with Chelsea, where the striker still has five years remaining on his contract. If successful, Delap would join a team looking to climb the standings after a difficult start.
The immediate focus for the club is preparing for the match against 10th-placed Liverpool. Any new signing would need to be integrated quickly to make an impact during a busy period. For Glasner, adding a striker he has specifically targeted is a clear priority to address the team's early-season lack of goals.
