Nottingham Forest sign Liam Delap from Chelsea for record fee

Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of striker Liam Delap from Chelsea for a club-record fee, with the 23-year-old penning a five-year contract at the City Ground. The deal, finalized on August 27, 2026, is understood to be worth an initial £45 million, with a further £5 million in potential add-ons.

Delap becomes Forest's third signing of the summer and their most expensive acquisition in history. He arrives having been deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea by manager Xabi Alonso. The forward, who joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town for £30 million in 2025, was made to train separately from the first-team squad and had his number nine shirt reassigned to new signing Joao Pedro. Chelsea have made a profit on the sale despite Delap managing only three goals in all competitions during his single season at Stamford Bridge.

Forest's new head coach, Oliver Glasner, identified Delap as a priority target during the transfer window. The player expressed his enthusiasm for the move. "I really can't wait to get started. This is a massive club with a big history," Delap said. "I spoke to the manager and I like his way. I think he can be the one to really help me develop and make...