Expert backs Xabi Alonso to admit Chelsea star is better suited to playing for Everton and sanction summer deal

Liam Delap has emerged as a transfer target for Everton ahead of the summer window as big changes are expected to take place at Chelsea.

Following the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their next permanent manager, there is a growing feeling that a number of players will be moved on come the end of the season.

Everton are among a number of clubs keeping a close eye on the situation in case the striker is one of those made available, with a move now being lined up.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that that David Moyes is a big admirer of Delap after missing out on his signature last year.

The Toffees had considered signing the striker before his move to Stamford Bridge, and if they are given encouragement by Chelsea, Everton could accelerate their transfer plans.

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Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Everton could make a move for Delap in a deal which would likely be worth around £30million.

The striker has failed to impress since his move to Stamford Bridge, most recently struggling in the FA Cup final, and could now be set to move on.

Moyes’ style of play at Everton is expected to better suit the striker’s physicality and it could be seen as the perfect move, albeit one year later than planned.

“Everton always seemed a better destination for him than Chelsea,” Brown told Football Insider.

“It was a surprise when he moved to Chelsea last year, because it seemed like Everton would be much better suited to the way he plays at this stage of his career.

“It’s the reason he was let go by Man City and now the reason he’s struggling at Chelsea, he isn’t the type of striker who is good with his feet and with link-up play.

“He thrives when the ball is played long and he can battle for it, in the air or on the ground, and he can bully defenders to get them out of his way.

“That style suits David Moyes and Everton much more than it does Chelsea, and I expect when Alonso comes in he will make that same evaluation.

“He should have gone to Everton last year, but they will have been keeping a close eye on him at Chelsea, and if the opportunity comes up then they could finally make it happen.”

Chelsea are preparing for a busy summer transfer window following their decision to appoint Alonso as the permanent successor to Liam Rosenior.

The 44-year-old will be tasked with getting his players focused and gaining their respect after seeing Rosenior fail to do so during his short spell.

As a result, Brown told Football Insider on 18 May that Alonso could oversee a clear-out at Chelsea, with as many as six players pushed out of Stamford Bridge.

The Spaniard is believed to be assessing his squad and will root out those who do not fit his plans as well as potentially problematic characters.

A number of influential players in the Blues squad have already been identified as potential concerns and the boss will weigh up their futures before he takes over.

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