Why Liam Delap chose Chelsea and not Everton despite positive David Moyes talks

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Everton have tasted defeat in the race to sign Liam Delap.

It has been a fierce battle among some of the top clubs in the Premier League to land the signature of Delap to bolster their frontlines.

Chelsea are set to sign Delap this summer, with the striker giving the Blues the green light to trigger his release clause.

Despite enjoying a strong second half of the season, Everton have entered the summer knowing they need to add quality up front.

David Moyes is willing to sign two new strikers when the market opens for business.

But the 62-year-old Everton manager will not be getting his hands on Delap who is set to stay down south with the newly-crowned Europa Conference League champions.

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Liam Delap chooses Chelsea after Everton talks

It is believed Delap was impressed with his Everton meeting as Moyes tried to persuade the striker to Merseyside.

Despite this, the 20-year-old has made the decision to join Chelsea despite Everton offering him regular minutes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Delap was keen to join Chelsea as they were able to offer him Champions League football.

It was suggested Delap relaxed his focus on European football for next season as he was eyeing the right fit for his career development.

However, the Italian journalist claims the young striker was also keen to work under Enzo Maresca who has helped the likes of Cole Palmer flourish.

John Terry is not convinced by Chelsea signing Delap as he would have preferred to see the Blues sign a more experienced name.

As for Everton, it is now time to shift the focus on to their other targets.

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Everton would have been a great fit for Delap

Clearly, there was still a strong wish to play in Europe next season which has seen him make the move to Stamford Bridge.

Everton need to sign players who want to be there. So, there should be no sleep lost on missing out on Delap.

Moyes personally spoke to Delap and if the player did not buy into that then the Toffees just have to assess their other options.

It has been suggested Everton are eyeing Nick Woltemade as a Delap alternative, which could provide another exciting young prospect for the Friedkins to chase after.