Liam Rosenior’s Words Suggest Trouble for Liam Delap as Bayern Munich Reach £70m Decision

By Football Insider Staff | Published February 2026

Chelsea's bold summer signings of Liam Delap and João Pedro for a combined £90 million have reshaped their attacking options, but recent developments spell potential trouble for Delap. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano's latest comments, echoed by new manager Liam Rosenior, indicate uncertainty around Delap's future amid interest from Bayern Munich, who have reached a £70m decision on another striker situation.[1][2]

Delap, signed as an upgrade alongside Pedro, has struggled with injuries, including a severe hamstring issue just before the transfer window closed. This prompted Chelsea to attempt recalling loanee Nicolas Jackson from Bayern Munich, but Jackson refused, forcing through his move despite sacrificing personal finances. Bayern's deal included a €16.5m loan fee and a €65m obligation to buy if Jackson starts 40 games—a clause Bayern's Uli Hoeneß dismissed outright. With an option for permanence next summer also deemed unlikely by The Times, Jackson is set to return to Chelsea.[2][3]

Rosenior's words, as interpreted through Romano, suggest no clear path for Jackson's reintegration. Romano stated: "Chelsea already signed a striker for the summer, [Emmanuel] Emegha, who is similar in terms of skills to Jackson... my understanding is that it's expected that different opportunities on the market will be explored, rather than staying."[1] This implies Chelsea's squad planning favors Pedro, who has flourished under Rosenior with expectations of 20 goals, over both Delap (three goals amid injury woes) and the returning Jackson.[2]

Bayern's £70m decision—opting against Jackson's permanent transfer—frees them to pursue Delap, whose versatility and potential make him a target. Rosenior's reluctance to accommodate Jackson signals a crowded striker roster, potentially pushing Delap out. Chelsea's failed recall attempt highlights fractured relations, and with Emegha incoming, Delap faces a battle for minutes. As Romano doubles down, Delap's Chelsea tenure hangs in the balance.[1][2]

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