Forest working on deal for Chelsea striker Delap

Nottingham Forest are in discussions to acquire Chelsea striker Liam Delap for £50m. The 23-year-old player has been made available for transfer by Chelsea. Training separately from the first-team squad, Delap's availability for sale is causing speculation about the nature of the potential deal. It is not yet determined whether the discussions revolve around a permanent transfer or a loan move.

The two clubs have a positive working relationship, although it is unclear if this will impact the transfer proceedings. Delap was absent from Chelsea's squad for their Premier League match against Fulham and recently lost the number nine shirt to Joao Pedro. The transfer would come just over a year after Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town for £30m, despite only managing one league goal that season due to shoulder and hamstring injuries.

Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, have made significant summer signings such as defender Ousmane Diomande for £34m and free agent acquisitions Xaver Schlager and Steve Benda. However, they have also made significant sales, including midfielder Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for a club-record £116m and striker Taiwo Awoniyi to Coventry City for £9m.

Delap's presence at Nottingham Forest would provide competition for Chris Wood and Igor Jesus. Chelsea, meanwhile, are actively seeking to sell and loan out several of their 39 senior players before the transfer deadline on September 1st.