Everton and Brighton Step Up Interest in Forward Ahead of Summer Move | OneFootball

Everton and Brighton Enter Race for Liam Delap as Premier League Interest Intensifies

Everton and Brighton have emerged as serious contenders in the pursuit of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, according to TEAMtalk. With Ipswich likely to be relegated, the 22-year-old’s future appears increasingly destined to lie elsewhere — and several Premier League clubs are queuing up to convince him their project is the one to join.

Delap has impressed this season, scoring 12 goals in the top flight despite playing in a struggling side. A release clause of £40 million becomes active only if Ipswich are relegated, a scenario that now looks all but certain. For clubs in search of a young, Premier League-proven forward, Delap represents a rare combination of ability, age and availability.

Photo IMAGO

Everton Rebuilding Attack Amid Summer Uncertainty

Everton are preparing for major changes in their forward line. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract is set to expire this summer, and there are doubts over whether Armando Broja’s loan from Chelsea will be made permanent.

Sources close to the club suggest Delap is being viewed as a key target. As reported by TEAMtalk, “Everton could lose Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer… and they are looking closely at Delap as a potential option for the summer.”

Photo: IMAGO

The Toffees have reportedly gathered detailed scouting reports in recent weeks and are expected to intensify their interest once Ipswich’s relegation is confirmed.

Brighton Eye Long-Term Successor

Brighton, too, have entered the race. Renowned for their strategic recruitment and development of young talent, the Seagulls see Delap as an ideal fit for their forward-thinking setup. With uncertainty surrounding some of their current attacking options, Brighton are laying the groundwork for another smart addition to their squad.

Their interest aligns with the club’s broader philosophy — identifying high-potential players before they become unattainable. Delap, with his technical attributes and tactical flexibility, fits that mould perfectly.

Premier League Giants Lurking in Background

Everton and Brighton may be the latest to join the chase, but they are far from alone. Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle are also monitoring Delap’s situation.

TEAMtalk’s report confirms: “We have consistently reported that Liverpool are another of the clubs keeping tabs on Delap… Newcastle are also admirers… Manchester United and Chelsea have also shown interest.”

Photo: IMAGO

Competition will be fierce, and for Everton or Brighton to succeed, they must not only offer a convincing project but also assurances of regular game time — a key consideration for a player entering a defining stage of his career.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Everton, Liam Delap represents a fresh start. After years of inconsistency in front of goal and now with Calvert-Lewin potentially departing, Delap feels like the kind of player who could lead the line for years — powerful, clinical, and still developing.

For Brighton, this is yet another chance to prove their recruitment brilliance. Imagine Delap under Fabian Hürzeler — moulded tactically, deployed smartly, and surrounded by creative talent who play between the lines. It’s a perfect fit.

Yes, the competition is steep. But for both clubs, this isn’t just a transfer — it’s a statement. Whether it’s Everton looking to rebuild or Brighton pushing into European regularity, landing Delap could mark a pivotal summer.