Chelsea striker Liam Delap is being allowed to leave the club just 14 months after his £30m move from Ipswich Town, triggered by a release clause. The 23-year-old scored only once in the Premier League last season and has been deemed surplus to requirements under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Interest in Delap has been limited, primarily due to his £50m asking price rather than doubts about his ability. Nottingham Forest and Leeds showed interest, though the latter have cooled. Delap's representatives acknowledge his form fell short of expectations, citing injuries and a turbulent season where Chelsea finished 10th.

The club is restructuring its squad, with defenders Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi also departing on loan. Chelsea are working to reduce their 40-player roster to a more traditional 25-man squad, especially with no European football this season.

Delap's departure follows the loss of his number nine shirt to Joao Pedro. Other players in the secondary training group include Nicolas Jackson and Tosin Adarabioyo. The club aims to complete several loan deals, including moves for Disasi to Crystal Palace and Badiashile to Napoli.