Watford legend Troy Deeney has claimed that Liam Delap is hindering his career development by choosing to join Chelsea instead of Manchester United this summer.

The 22-year-old striker is reportedly on the verge of completing a move to Chelsea from Ipswich Town, having already undergone the first part of his medical with the London club.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Deeney expressed his concerns about Delap's career choice: "I think, personally, when I just look at Delap's development, I thought Manchester United was a perfect fit [for him to join the club]."

"I think he's missing a step in his development [by choosing Chelsea]," the former Watford captain added.

Deeney highlighted Delap's limited playing time following Ipswich Town's relegation, noting: "The second Ipswich Town got relegated, he did not play [for them in the Premier League]."

The former striker believes that joining Manchester United would have provided Delap with valuable experience at this stage of his career, suggesting: "Going to Manchester United at this stage of his career, he would've had to deal with the big experience."

Delap's move to Chelsea comes amid significant transfer activity between the Premier League giants, with both clubs looking to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season.

The young striker's decision has sparked debate among football pundits, with Gordon Strachan reportedly claiming that Manchester United should have secured Delap's signature, describing him as a player "defenders hate facing."