Nottingham Forest have secured the signing of forward Liam Delap from Chelsea on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Jeudi. The transfer reportedly sets a new club-record fee for Forest.
Although the exact financial terms were not officially disclosed, British media outlets report that Forest paid around £45 million ($61.08 million) for the 23-year-old striker, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons. This surpasses the club’s previous record signing, Omari Hutchinson, who was acquired from Ipswich Town last year for £37.5 million.
Expressing enthusiasm about his move, Delap stated, “I really can’t wait to get started, this is a massive club with a big history.” He also emphasized his positive impression of Forest’s manager, Oliver Glasner, saying, “I spoke to the manager and I like his way. I think he can be the one to really help me develop and make that next step and hopefully I can bring goals here.”
From Youth Prospect to Premier League Striker
Delap, the son of former Stoke City midfielder Rory Delap, began his football journey in Manchester City’s academy before transferring to Ipswich Town in 2024. During the 2024-25 season, he made a significant impact by scoring 12 goals in 37 appearances.
In 2025, Delap moved to Chelsea and was part of the squad that won the Club World Cup. However, his time at Chelsea was hampered by injuries and inconsistent form, limiting him to just three goals across 47 appearances in all competitions, and preventing him from securing a regular starting position.
Nottingham Forest, who finished 16th in the Premier League last season, will be looking to strengthen their attacking options with Delap as they prepare for their upcoming match against Liverpool on Samedi.