Manchester United Reach Agreement in Principle for Liam Delap as Premier League Rivals Circle
Manchester United have reportedly moved one step closer to securing the signature of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, as the club has reached a deal framework worth around £30 million, according to a report by ESPN.
However, United are not the only club in the race, with Chelsea, Everton, and Newcastle United also vying to sign the highly-rated young forward.
Following a disappointing season under new manager Ruben Amorim, where United finished in the bottom half of the Premier League table, the club is set for a significant rebuild.
A key area of focus is the attacking line, with recent signings Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee yet to fully justify their investments.
As part of the forward overhaul, Delap has emerged as a top target.
Delap Deal Making Progress
Sources close to the situation suggest that United have already informed Ipswich Town of their willingness to match the release clause in Delap’s contract.
The deal, believed to be around £30 million, reflects the club’s urgency to reinforce their attacking options.
While United have done their part to initiate the move, the final decision now lies with Delap himself, who is said to be weighing his options carefully.
Delap had a strong campaign at Ipswich, despite the team suffering relegation.
The 21-year-old striker, once part of the Manchester City youth system, finally broke through at Premier League level this past season after several years gaining experience in the Championship.
His standout performances, energy, and physicality have earned praise from teammates and caught the attention of several top-flight clubs.
Competition Heating Up for the Young Striker
While United have made the first significant move, the race is far from over. Chelsea, Everton, and Newcastle United have all held conversations with Delap’s representatives.
Each of these clubs presents its own appeal: for instance, Newcastle and Chelsea will offer European football next season, which could be a deciding factor in Delap’s decision.
Additionally, the guarantee of consistent playing time may be more promising at clubs like Everton, who are in dire need of firepower up front.
United’s Broader Attacking Revamp
Delap isn’t the only player United are pursuing. They have also reportedly agreed a deal with Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, reinforcing their intent to reshape the frontline under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership and with Dan Ashworth now overseeing sporting operations.
With current strikers struggling for consistency, United’s strategy is clearly centered on bringing in young, hungry talents to compete for starting roles.
At this stage, Delap remains undecided, but Old Trafford is firmly in the mix.
