Chelsea will reportedly ask Liam Delap to prioritise the Club World Cup over England duty this summer, according to the Telegraph.
The 22-year-old is edging closer to a £30 million move to Stamford Bridge after Chelsea activated his release clause at Ipswich Town.
Delap had a fantastic breakthrough campaign in the Premier League, scoring 12 goals for the Tractor Boys.
The explosive striker impressed with his raw strength, hold-up play, technical ability and ball-striking prowess.
He was on the radar of several Premier League clubs, but Chelsea have won the race.
Delap is in line to represent England at the Under-21 European Championship. Lee Carsley’s side are set to defend their crown in Slovakia.
However, the expanded Club World Cup is scheduled to kick off in the United States on June 14. This is just two days after the Young Lions’ curtain raiser against Czechia.
The conflict of interest has left Chelsea with no choice but to ask Delap to step down from his national team duties if they seal a deal early enough.
He now faces a significant decision once he signs his long-term contract with Chelsea. Manchester City are facing a similar tug-of-war.
When the Football Association called up Rico Lewis and James McAtee for England’s U21 squad, Pep Guardiola questioned the logic of pulling players from club duties.
McAtee has since joined the England camp, but no resolution has been reached over Lewis.
Delap is on the cusp of reuniting with Enzo Maresca at Chelsea. Personal terms haven’t been finalised, but a medical has already been scheduled for Monday.
Chelsea are also expected to sign a centre-back and a left winger this summer.
