Liam Delap has reportedly made a firm decision on his immediate future, dealing a setback to David Moyes and Everton’s summer transfer plans.

Delap Makes Everton Decision as Moyes’ Transfer Hopes Take Hit

The Everton boss had identified the England Under-21 striker as a key target and even held positive talks with him last year about a potential move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium. However, despite that long-standing interest, Delap has now chosen to remain at Chelsea FC and fight for his place.

The 23-year-old forward joined Chelsea in a £30 million deal from Ipswich Town, opting for the lure of UEFA Champions League football over a switch to Merseyside. But his debut season at Stamford Bridge has proven difficult, with just two goals in 37 appearances across all competitions.

Despite those struggles, reports suggest Delap is determined to stay in west London, finish the campaign strongly, and impress a new manager expected to arrive following the departure of Liam Rosenior.

Everton, meanwhile, remain convinced that Moyes could revive Delap’s career. The Scotsman has already rebuilt the confidence of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who has flourished since leaving Chelsea. The midfielder is enjoying a standout campaign at Goodison Park, contributing eight goals and six assists in 27 Premier League appearances and emerging as a strong contender for the club’s Player of the Season award.

That success had encouraged optimism within Everton that Delap could follow a similar path. However, with the striker under contract at Chelsea until 2031 and seemingly committed to proving himself, the Toffees may now be forced to explore alternative attacking options.

Club owners The Friedkin Group are understood to support Moyes in the transfer market, but there is little they can do if the player remains determined to stay put.

As things stand, Everton’s pursuit appears to have stalled — leaving Moyes facing a crucial decision in his search for a new striker ahead of next season.