Newcastle United’s search for a striker continues as Liam Delap prepares to join Chelsea.
Eddie Howe has been keen to bring Liam Delap to St James’ Park, but is going to be left disappointed.
Delap has chosen Chelsea over Newcastle United, with the 22-year-old’s other suitors informed about his preference.
It is a blow for Newcastle United, who felt that £30million for Delap represented serious value and had visions of him playing up front alongside Alexander Isak.
That dream will not become a reality, and Delap’s decision to turn down the Magpies sums up a major problem that Howe will struggle to solve.
Newcastle United will struggle to sign a striker
Newcastle United desperately need to address their striker situation this summer.
While Alexander Isak has had the best season of his career with 27 goals in all competitions, he has also struggled in recent months due to the volume of games he has had to play.
A groin problem has limited his impact, yet Howe has not had an alternative. Callum Wilson has not been good enough, while Will Osula is still too raw.
With Wilson looking likely to leave Newcastle United when his contract expires this summer, the Magpies’ need for a striker will only intensify.
Yet whoever the club target will be well aware of what their role will be. If another striker arrives at St James’ Park, they are automatically behind Isak in the pecking order.
In that respect, why would any striker make the move? Especially during a summer in which it seems like every club is looking for a goalscorer.
