Liam Delap has plenty of admirers at Everton.
David Moyes met the England U21 international last summer in an attempt to secure his arrival in a £30m move from Ipswich, only for Chelsea to ultimately win the race.
However, Everton remain keen as the striker struggles in west London, netting only two goals in 41 appearances last season – his situation has now been made even more difficult as Nicolas Jackson and Emmanuel Emegha join the squad at Stamford Bridge.
Moyes still hopes to sign the former Manchester City attacker – according to several reports – but the BBC have now shared a detail about Delap which casts significant doubt over the move.
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Liam Delap has bought a house “locally”
Most footballers typically rent houses or apartments, given the nature of the industry in which players often move around regularly.
However, the BBC believe Delap has now purchased a house “locally” as he aims to win over Xabi Alonso and make a name for himself at Stamford Bridge.
It is said that the Chelsea No.9 wants at least one more season to prove himself to those in west London, although it remains to be seen if he will be given this opportunity.
Chelsea failed to qualify for any European competition, meaning there will be fewer opportunities for Delap to receive game time given the fierce competition of Joao Pedro, Jackson and Emegha – not to mention any other striker Alonso may want to be signed.
It means a move to Everton could still happen, but if the 23-year-old is to have a say in the matter, it seems he has no desire to move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium whatsoever.
Everton could still do some business with Chelsea regardless, as the future of Tyrique George remains up in the air following his quiet loan spell with the Toffees in the second half of last term.
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Moyes praised George and said he likes what the England U21 international can offer, but considering Chelsea want £25m for a permanent move, that figure may prove prohibitive.
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