Everton may have just hit a significant stumbling block in Liam Delap transfer pursuit

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Everton fans are hoping for the club to have a productive summer in the transfer market – and a top striker will be on the agenda.

Everton have again struggled to score goals in 2024/25, and it is thanks mainly to a strong defence that the Toffees ultimately never got into any real relegation trouble.

If Everton are to push on next season, and possibly finish in mid-table or top half, then a regular goalscorer will be needed.

Beto briefly suggested himself as being the man to lead the line, but has now not scored for Everton since February.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin could be leaving Everton when his contract expires, while Armando Broja is set to return to parent club Chelsea.

So at least one new striker will be needed, and Everton are thought to be interested in Liam Delap.

But there’s been a new development to suggest Everton will now find it very difficult to land him.

Liam Delap wage demands now shared amid Everton transfer interest

Delap is now one of the hottest commodities around after a fine first proper season in the Premier League with Ipswich Town.

Delap now has a £30 million release clause following the Tractor Boys’ relegation, and understandably, that has piqued the interest of several clubs.

It has previously been suggested that European football will be a big factor for Delap when deciding his next club.

That means Everton are really up against it to sign Delap – but now, another stumbling block has emerged.

According to Chronicle Live, Delap is expected to ask for wages between £120,000 to £150,000 per week in any talks with rivals.

Currently, Everton’s highest earner according to Capology is Abdoulaye Doucoure on £130,000 per week.

Including him, there are just five players who earn £100,000 per week or more for Everton.

Everton’s hopes of sign Delap fading quickly

There is probably no doubt that Everton are interested in Delap, given his status as a proven, young English goalscorer in the Premier League.

But it’s starting to become clear that Everton will be massively up against it to sign him this summer.

Between the competition from other suitors and these huge wage demands, Everton will struggle to sign the player. With no European football to offer, Everton would almost certainly have to make Delap their best-paid player.

The Friedkin Group may still try to get him.

But an approach might just be futile, so Everton will no doubt have other targets in mind.