Manchester United and Chelsea Set to Battle for Ipswich Striker Liam Delap
In the ever-competitive world of Premier League football, the transfer market is often as thrilling as the matches themselves. This summer, the spotlight is on Liam Delap, the Ipswich Town forward who has caught the attention of two of England’s football giants: Manchester United and Chelsea. According to sources, both clubs are gearing up for a fierce battle to secure the services of the talented striker.
Manchester United, despite facing financial constraints, are determined to bolster their attacking options. The club’s hierarchy, led by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has been implementing a series of job cuts and efficiency measures to stabilize finances and avoid breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). However, sources have revealed that coach Ruben Amorim will receive backing in the transfer market, with a new center-forward being the top priority.
Delap, who has scored 12 goals in 30 Premier League games for Ipswich since his £20 million ($25.7m) transfer from Manchester City last summer, has emerged as United’s favored target. The 22-year-old is available for a relatively inexpensive £40m fee if Ipswich are relegated, making him an attractive option for the Red Devils.
Interestingly, Manchester City have a £40m clause to re-sign Delap, which was included in the contract he signed after joining Ipswich. However, despite his impressive form this season, Pep Guardiola’s team is unlikely to trigger that option. The reason? Erling Haaland’s decision to sign a mammoth nine-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad in January has solidified City’s attacking lineup.
Nevertheless, City stands to benefit financially if Delap leaves Portman Road at the end of the season. The club negotiated a 20% exit clause, meaning they will receive 20% of any profit made by Ipswich if they offload the England under-21 forward.
Why Delap is a Hot Commodity
- Proven Premier League record: 12 goals in 30 games.
- Relatively low transfer fee of £40m if Ipswich are relegated.
- Potential financial gain for Manchester City due to a 20% exit clause.
While Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres is available if a club triggers his €100m (£85.4m) release clause, Delap has moved ahead of the 26-year-old in United’s pecking order. This is due to Delap’s cost, age profile, and proven record in the Premier League. United also anticipates interest from Arsenal in Gyökeres, who thrived under Amorim with the Portuguese champions following his £17m move to Lisbon from Coventry in 2023.
Delap’s potential suitors are not limited to Manchester United and Chelsea. Champions League clubs are also likely to pursue him, with Liverpool possibly entering the fray if Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah leave this summer. Chelsea, on the other hand, could offer Delap a place in next season’s competition.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea is coached by Enzo Maresca, who worked with Delap at City’s Academy. This connection could give Chelsea an edge in the race to sign the striker, making the competition even more intense.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the battle for Liam Delap is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines. With Manchester United and Chelsea both eager to strengthen their squads, the young striker’s future is set to be a hot topic in the football world.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
