Forest eye loan for Delap as Blues sideline striker

Nottingham Forest are in talks with Chelsea about a possible loan move for forward Liam Delap, with an option to buy, after the 23‑year‑old was omitted from the Blues’ squad for their 3‑2 Premier League win over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday night, reports say on 24 August 2026.

Why Forest are targeting the striker

Oliver Glasner’s Forest are keen to secure Delap, seeing him as a striker who could add depth after a busy summer. The club has already pursued Jacob Murphy from Newcastle, indicating a broader push for attacking options. Other Premier League sides have also shown interest this summer.

Chelsea have signalled willingness to listen to offers for the forward, which reported the club’s openness last week. Delap’s exclusion from the squad for the 3‑2 victory over Fulham underscores his limited role this season.

The 23‑year‑old joined Chelsea from Ipswich last summer after an impressive season at Portman Road. In his debut Premier League campaign at Stamford Bridge he managed only one league goal.

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Ipswich have been linked with a potential return for Delap, while Leeds, who beat Forest 1‑0 in their weekend clash, are also interested but may balk at the likely fee. Everton could explore a loan if permanent offers do not materialise.

This summer Forest have already invested £36 million in defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting and added free‑agent midfielder Xaver Schlager and goalkeeper Steve Benda. They also generated funds by selling Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for £116 million.

Sources understand Forest aim initially for a loan with an option to buy, mirroring the approach they have taken with other targets. Their interest in Jacob Murphy, who also attracts Everton, shows a pattern of securing flexible deals.

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If the loan materialises, Forest could bolster their attack without a large upfront outlay, while Chelsea may offload a player who has struggled to make an impact, potentially freeing squad space and wage budget.