Liam Delap reveals decision to choose Chelsea over Man United

Liam Delap has spoken about his decision to join Chelsea instead of Manchester United this summer, after signing a long-term contract.

Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich after the Blues triggered a relegation release clause in his contract that allowed him to leave for £30 million.

The England under-21 international signed a six-year deal with the London club, keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2031.

Despite interest from Manchester United and other Premier League clubs, the 22-year-old signed for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea.

Now, the young forward has described the reason behind making his choice, admitting it was down to their “exciting project” after speaking to felow English counterpart Cole Palmer.

“You never know if it is going to be the right decision but you’ve just got to go with your gut and hope it works out,” he said. “You’ve got to take your time. I took a few days to speak to people and decide my future.

Delap added: “I asked him what I needed to ask him, he told me what I needed to know. But I don’t like too much information. Ultimately, it was my decision so I kind of just want my head to be clear.”

Man United were reportedly the frontrunners to sign the 22-year-old, but after failing to qualify for Europe and losing in the Europa League final, Delap chose Chelsea, who will compete in the Champions League next season.

“It wasn’t the be-all and end-all because I was also looking towards future seasons but also it helps,” he said.

“I’ve got a good relationship with the manager. I know how he plays. I’ve played in this system before. It’s very similar now but with little tweaks.

“I know a lot of the players here and the project of the club, how they see the future. That’s what excited me.”

The Conference League winners do not appear to be done with their search to revamp their striker department of their squad.

They have been strongly linked with a move for Eintracht Frankfurt sensation Hugo Ekitike in recent times, as they continue to search for a prolific goalscorer to either complement Nicholas Jackson or lead the line next season.

Jackson, who was signed from Villarreal two years ago for £30 million, put pen to paper last summer. The Senegalese striker signed a two-year contract extension that ties him to Chelsea until 2033.

Meanwhile, Delap may be prepared for a healthy competition at the Bridge with Jackson, who has struggled to keep up with the pressure, both internally and from the media.