Manchester United are poised to secure the signing of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, having reportedly reached an agreement with the recently relegated Premier League club.
This move comes despite growing interest in the 22-year-old forward from several top-tier English sides, including Chelsea.
Sources from ESPN indicate that Manchester United have communicated their readiness to activate Delap’s release clause—valued at £30 million—on the condition that the player declares his intention to join the club. The clause was inserted into Delap’s contract with Ipswich Town in the event of the team dropping out of the Premier League, a fate confirmed at the end of the current season.
Delap has enjoyed a breakout campaign in his debut Premier League season with Ipswich, registering 12 goals in a side that ultimately could not avoid relegation. His performances have not gone unnoticed, as clubs such as Chelsea, West Ham, Aston Villa, Everton, and Arsenal have all expressed varying degrees of interest in acquiring the young striker.
Delap began his professional journey with Manchester City in 2020, where he made his senior debut before taking on loan spells that contributed to his development. His transition to Ipswich Town marked a new phase in his career, offering him consistent game time and a platform to showcase his attacking prowess at the highest level.
Despite the rising interest from rival clubs, Manchester United have emerged as front-runners to sign Delap, encouraged by the vision of new manager Ruben Amorim, who sees the young attacker as a key figure in his rebuild at Old Trafford. Amorim’s project reportedly appeals to Delap, who is evaluating where he would receive the best opportunity to continue his growth.
Meanwhile, former Aston Villa captain Gabby Agbonlahor has weighed in on the situation, advising Delap against a move to Manchester United. Agbonlahor’s concerns reflect a belief that the club’s current structure may not offer the ideal environment for young talents seeking consistent playing time and steady development.
However, Manchester United’s proactive approach in securing an agreement with Ipswich Town, coupled with their willingness to meet Delap’s release clause, places them in a strong position to complete the transfer, should the player choose to join.
What you should know
Liam Delap is a highly-rated 22-year-old striker who scored 12 goals in his debut Premier League season with Ipswich Town.
With a £30 million release clause now in effect following the club’s relegation, Manchester United are moving quickly to secure his signature ahead of rival Premier League clubs. The final decision now rests with Delap, whose choice could shape the next chapter of his promising career.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM VERILY NEWS
