Manchester United finally completes dream signing as Most wanted striker signed six-years contract
Manchester United have reportedly laid the groundwork for a potential move to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, according to ESPN. The club has made it clear to Ipswich that they are willing to activate the 22-year-old’s £30 million release clause if he agrees to make the switch to Old Trafford. Now, the decision rests with the England youth international, who is also being courted by Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Everton.
Although Everton have already held face-to-face discussions with the former Manchester City academy forward, they appear to be falling behind in the race for his signature. Delap is expected to reach a final decision on his future within the week, which should put an end to the speculation surrounding his next move.
United’s pursuit of Delap reflects a renewed focus on bolstering their frontline. He has emerged as one of their top targets, alongside Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Matheus Cunha. With Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee both underwhelming in the Premier League last season — combining for just seven goals — Manchester United are in urgent need of a more reliable goal scorer. Delap, in contrast, notched 12 league goals during his campaign with Ipswich.
While Zirkzee might stay and continue in a more creative role under manager Ruben Amorim’s system, Hojlund’s future appears far more uncertain. United’s hierarchy reportedly no longer have faith in the Danish forward and are open to selling him, with Serie A clubs Inter Milan and Juventus expressing interest in bringing him back to Italy.
United are also looking to revamp their squad significantly this summer following their failure to qualify for European competition. Several player exits are expected as the club aims to cut down its wage bill and make room for new signings. Although the funds for Delap’s release clause are available, further reinforcements will likely depend on generating cash through player sales.
Delap’s potential arrival could represent a shift in United’s recruitment strategy, emphasizing young, dynamic talent who can thrive in a high-pressing system. Should the striker choose United, it might mark the beginning of a new chapter — and possibly the end of Hojlund’s time in Manchester.
