Osimhen was the right choice - Ex-Premier League star questions Chelsea’s Delap signing

Former Premier League forward Gabby Agbonlahor has criticised Chelsea’s transfer strategy, arguing that the club erred by signing Liam Delap instead of targeting a proven elite striker like Victor Osimhen.

Speaking on talkSPORT after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, the former Aston Villa attacker suggested that Delap’s move from Ipswich Town to Stamford Bridge came too soon in his development.

“I said when he joined Chelsea that I thought he should have gone to a team like Everton. Develop there for a couple of years and then make the big move to a top-six side. I think the jump from Ipswich to Chelsea was too much,” Agbonlahor said.

While Agbonlahor acknowledged Delap’s potential and physical qualities, he questioned whether the striker is ready to lead the line at the highest level of the Premier League.

“When I look at him as a striker, I like him, he can hold up the ball well, he’s a good finisher, but he just doesn’t look sharp enough for the top level. Someone like Victor Osimhen was the striker they should have gone out and got,” he explained.

The pundit also aimed at Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior’s tactical decision to deploy Delap on the right wing against Arsenal, describing it as puzzling and ineffective.

“What I didn’t understand was Liam Delap on the right. I could play on the wing because I was quick, but if one sort of striker couldn’t play on the wing, it’s Liam Delap. He looked lost. He got the ball, tried to take on Hincapie, and lost it every time,” Agbonlahor added.