John Terry’s verdict: Why Chelsea picked Delap over Osimhen

Former Chelsea captain John Terry may have indirectly shed light on why the Blues are leaning towards signing English forward Liam Delap over pursuing Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Napoli-owned forward has been heavily linked with a move to the English Premier League, particularly Chelsea, who were keen on luring him to Stamford Bridge last summer.

As the deal did not materialise, Chelsea has turned to other alternatives, including former Manchester City player Delap, who has been impressive for Ipswich Town this season.

In a recent interview, Terry praised Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson for his impact on the team while also addressing the club’s reluctance to bring in older, high-earning players.

“I think Nico[las Jackson] has been really good, firstly,” Terry said toTalkSPORTS as cited by Football London. “When I watch him play, he's only one of a handful of strikers in the league that plays on the shoulder. As a defender, that's a nightmare — it opens up space. I like Nico.”

Terry then pivoted to the broader issue of Chelsea’s attacking options, hinting at the club’s preference for younger players who have scored more Premier League goals.

“If you are looking at the next step, you need someone proven and who has scored goals in the Premier League,” he added.

“Usually that's an experienced player, but the owners are clear — they don't want to bring in someone of 29, 30 years of age on big money. It's a different model. I personally feel we need that.”

Chelsea were strongly linked with a move for Super Eagles striker Osimhen, who recently concluded a sensational season-long loan at Galatasaray.

The Nigerian international scored 26 goals in the Turkish Süper Lig and 37 in all competitions, which further makes him one of Europe’s best forwards.

Get Our Sports News First – Click to Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

However, Soccernet.ng understands that despite Chelsea being willing to trigger Osimhen’s €70 million release clause, the deal stalled over the striker’s high salary demands, which have reportedly become a key concern for a club looking to operate under stricter financial controls.

Instead, Chelsea have reportedly turned their attention to the 22-year-old Ipswich Town striker who impressed despite the club’s relegation to the Championship.

Delap scored 12 goals in 37 appearances in the Premier League in the 2024-25 season campaign and is seen as a more affordable option with English Premier League experience.

While Terry didn’t mention Osimhen or Delap by name, his comments suggest why the club must have picked the promising striker over Osimhen.