Everton are keeping close tabs on Chelsea forward Liam Delap ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports.
The Toffees are believed to be among a host of Premier League clubs monitoring the English striker, who has struggled to settle at Chelsea following his arrival from Ipswich Town last summer.
Chelsea signed the 22-year-old from the Tractor Boys for around £30m, but are now seriously considering his long-term prospects at the club after an underwhelming first part of the season at Stamford Bridge.
Delap has found the back of the net only twice in 22 appearances for the Blues across all competitions and was benched for the last four Premier League games by head coach Liam Rosenior.
Everton Interested in Liam Delap
According to TEAMtalk, the second part of the season will be crucial in determining whether Delap will be part of Chelsea’s long-term project under Rosenior.
The 22-year-old striker is claimed to be under growing pressure at the club, as Emmanuel Emegha’s expected arrival this summer could push him further down Rosenior’s pecking order.
Delap has been playing second fiddle to fellow Chelsea summer signing Joao Pedro this season, with the Brazilian enjoying a promising campaign at Stamford Bridge, registering nine goals and four assists in 25 league appearances.
If Chelsea decide to cash in on Delap just 12 months after his arrival, the ‘phenomenal’ striker is expected to attract numerous suitors who have been closely following him since his time at Ipswich.
The likes of Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle are claimed to be monitoring the situation closely, should Chelsea decide to listen to offers for the 22-year-old.
Everton Make Dwight McNeil Transfer Decision
Everton are expected to try to move on Dwight McNeil in the summer after his failed move to Crystal Palace this month, according to reports.
The Toffees have not ruled out selling the winger when the market reopens after the season, after McNeil has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under David Moyes.
McNeil saw his move to Palace collapse in the closing stages of the winter transfer window, despite the Eagles submitting a deal sheet with the transfer agreed.
The 26-year-old has yet to score a goal in 18 appearances for Everton this season, including 14 in the Premier League.
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