Nottingham Forest close in on Liam Delap signing as they win race against Premier League rivals

Nottingham Forest are closing in on the signing of Liam Delap, talkSPORT understands.

Everton and Leeds United also hold historical interest in the Chelsea striker but Oliver Glasner’s side are set to snap the striker up.

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Delap is keen to make the transfer to the City Ground after being told that he doesn’t have a future at Chelsea.

Chelsea are believed to value the 23-year-old at £50million this summer.

Delap joined the Blues from Ipswich Town for £30million last summer following the Tractor Boys’ relegation from the Premier League.

The former England Under-21 international went on to score just one goal in 28 league appearances last term, though.

He has not been named in Chelsea’s matchday squad for their season opener on Monday night, which sees them face Fulham live on talkSPORT.

As a result, Delap is now one of several centre-forwards at the club under consideration for an exit despite his deal running until 2031.

Chelsea are also willing to listen to offers for Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu.

Delap to leave Chelsea

The latest interest in Delap comes after he was stripped of his shirt number ahead of the new season. Joao Pedro has been handed his No.9 jersey.

Delap had held the shirt since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, but has now been switched to the No.12, although that shirt is set to be vacated soon.

talkSPORT previously revealed Delap’s preference was to remain in the Premier League if he was to leave Chelsea.

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Italian side Como have also shown an interest in signing him this month.

Cesc Fabregas’ side will play Champions League football this term following their fourth place finish in Serie A.

Premier League clubs eye striker

Meanwhile, Leeds may be on the lookout for a new forward following Joel Piroe’s departure to West Ham.

The Suriname international joined the Hammers on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy if they win promotion. Piroe scored on debut during West Ham’s defeat at home to Charlton last weekend.

His exit leaves Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha as the only fit senior centre-forwards at Daniel Farke’s disposal.

Forest have also allowed a striker to leave with Taiwo Awoniyi joined newly-promoted Coventry City.

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Chris Wood and Igor Jesus remain at the City Ground, whilst Arnaud Kalimuendo has returned from his loan spell with Eintracht Frankfurt.

As for Everton, the Toffees can call upon Thierno Barry and Beto in the No.9 position, with the pair scoring a combined 17 league goals last term.