Nottingham Forest confirm Liam Delap signing - Chelsea make big profit despite poor form

Nottingham Forest have completed a deal to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap. The 23-year-old was made available for sale by Chelsea after a disappointing maiden campaign at Stamford Bridge. He was signed from Ipswich last summer for €35.5 million, but scored just three goals in 47 games for the Blues last term. Despite this, Forest have completed a deal with Chelsea for an initial €52.5m to sign Delap, with a further €5.8m of add-ons included. The player has a market value of just €28m after failing to impress.

In a Forest club statement, Delap said, "“I really can’t wait to get started, this is a massive club with a big history. I spoke to the manager and I like his way, I think he can be the one to really help me develop and make that next step and hopefully I can bring goals here." Delap was left out of Chelsea's squad for Monday night's 3-2 Premier League win against Fulham. He also lost the number nine shirt to fellow forward João Pedro last week. Delap ended last season with just one league goal after shoulder and hamstring injuries also disrupted his campaign.

Delap's arrival will provide competition for both Chris Wood and Igor Jesus at the City Ground under new manager Oliver Glasner. Chelsea, meanwhile, are looking to sanction a number of further sales and loan departures before the transfer deadline on September 1 next week. They still currently have 38 senior players on their books.