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, under the guidance of coach Ruben Amorim, has identified Delap as a prime target to address their goalscoring woes. Despite financial constraints that have led to a series of job cuts and efficiency measures, the club’s hierarchy, led by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is committed to backing Amorim in the transfer market. The focus is clear: a new centre-forward is the priority, and Delap fits the bill.
Delap’s journey to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. Since completing a £20 million ($25.7m) transfer from Manchester City to Ipswich last summer, the 22-year-old has scored 12 goals in 30 Premier League games. His performance has not gone unnoticed, and with Ipswich potentially facing relegation, Delap could be available for a relatively inexpensive £40m fee.
Interestingly, Manchester City has a £40m clause to re-sign Delap, a strategic move that could see them benefit financially if he leaves Portman Road. However, with Erling Haaland’s recent decision to sign a nine-and-a-half year contract at the Etihad, City is unlikely to trigger that option. Instead, they stand to gain from a 20% exit clause, receiving a portion of any profit Ipswich makes from Delap’s sale.
As the transfer window approaches, United’s interest in Delap is not without competition. Chelsea, under the leadership of coach Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Delap at City’s Academy, is also keen on the striker. The Stamford Bridge club could offer Delap a place in next season’s Champions League, adding another layer of intrigue to the transfer saga.
But Chelsea isn’t the only club in the mix. Liverpool might also enter the fray, especially if Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah depart this summer. The potential for Champions League football and the opportunity to work with familiar faces could make Chelsea an attractive destination for Delap.
Meanwhile, other strikers like Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres are also on United’s radar. Gyökeres, who thrived under Amorim at the Portuguese champions, is available if a club triggers his €100m (£85.4m) release clause. However, Delap’s cost, age profile, and proven Premier League record make him a more appealing option for United.
- Manchester United and Chelsea are both interested in signing Liam Delap.
- Delap has scored 12 goals in 30 Premier League games for Ipswich.
- Manchester City has a £40m clause to re-sign Delap but is unlikely to use it.
- Delap could be available for £40m if Ipswich is relegated.
- United is also considering Viktor Gyökeres, but Delap is the preferred target.
As the summer transfer window looms, the race for Liam Delap is heating up. With Manchester United and Chelsea both vying for his signature, the young striker’s future is a hot topic in the football world. Will Delap choose the Red Devils, the Blues, or perhaps another club altogether? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this transfer saga is one to watch.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
