Frank Christian
This summer, Arsenal is gearing up to strengthen its lineup with a focus on acquiring a skilled goalscorer. The team aims to enhance its squad to compete more effectively for the Premier League title in the upcoming season.
Currently, manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are in pursuit of a high-caliber striker to bolster their North London squad. They have engaged in discussions with Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP and Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig.
Acquiring a striker this summer is projected to require Arsenal to spend over £60 million. Recently, they had the chance to secure Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap, who was available for a mere £30 million due to his release clause following Ipswich’s relegation.
Despite this opportunity, Arsenal chose to pass on the deal, and Delap is now believed to be on the verge of signing with Chelsea. Reportedly, Arteta preferred a more seasoned player to lead the attack, deeming the 21-year-old too inexperienced for the responsibility.
Former player Adebayo Akinfenwa expressed his outrage at Arsenal’s decision to overlook Delap, asserting that the young player could have filled a crucial gap at the Emirates. Akinfenwa sees potential similarities between Delap and Diego Costa, suggesting he could be a future replacement for Harry Kane on the England squad.
“I can’t comprehend why Arsenal didn’t grab him… £30m is a small price in today’s market; when they’re discussing a potential Harry Kane successor, it’s baffling that Arsenal didn’t act,” Akinfenwa shared on talkSPORT on The Sports Bar podcast.
“As soon as Ipswich got relegated, they should have made a move. It’s an obvious choice. I believe he’s going to excel. He’s got an old-school style where you know you’re in for a robust match facing Delap.”
Examining Liam Delap’s Stats for 2024/25
The 22-year-old was likely the standout player for Ipswich Town during their relegation, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists across 37 Premier League matches.
Liam Delap undergoing his Chelsea medical today.
~ @JacobsBen pic.twitter.com/GoihwfdT9F
— Vince (@Blue_Footy) June 1, 2025
According to various reports, he is set to move to Stamford Bridge, where he will reportedly compete for a starting position with another forward. Overall, Delap exhibits characteristics of a traditional striker, known for effective hold-up play and strong shooting.
If this transfer materializes, it could represent a low-risk, high-reward situation for Chelsea. Many believe Arsenal should also consider acquiring a couple of strikers, similar to Chelsea’s strategy this summer.
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