Chelsea ‘plotting shock move for Ipswich striker Delap’ as Enzo Maresca draws up 10-man transfer shortlist

CHELSEA are plotting a shock move for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, according to reports.

The English forward has impressed at Portman Road this season following his summer switch from Manchester City.

Delap, 21, has bagged six goals in his 16 appearances in the Premier League as Ipswich battle for survival.

This form is believed to have caught Chelsea's attention ahead of the January transfer window.

The Athletic have claimed that the Blues have added Delap to a list of between five to 10 attackers.

However, it is believed the Tractor Boys would be "reluctant" to listen to "any offers" during the current campaign.

The report has also added that the Blues are unlikely to go back in for Victor Osimhen.

The striker is currently on loan at Galatasaray, having failed to seal a permanent move away from Napoli in the summer.

Chelsea could also be looking to cash in on some members of the squad.

The report has claimed that selling Ben Chilwell is a "priority" for the club as he is one of the highest earners.

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The club could also be tempted to move on Carney Chukwuemeka should a "suitable bid" be made.

It is also added that the midfielder has a release clause worth £40million.

Stars such as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Harvey Vale, Axel Disasi and Cesare Casade could also be available.

Meanwhile, Chelsea will face a battle to sign Delap in the January window.

The Blues will face competition from Premer League rivals Manchester United and Serie A giants Juventus.

Delap's performances have seen him be predicted to be the successor to Harry Kane for England.

BBC Sport pundit Danny Murphy said: "I've seen him a bit quite a lot this season and I'd probably go as far to say, for me, he's the obvious long-term successor to Kane.

"I think he's the best young English striker out there.

"I know he's got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league.

"But he's got all the attributes to be a top international player."