Man Utd transfers: Amorim to ditch Delap and sign 23-goal striker if critical test failed
Manchester United are intensifying their search for a new striker, with their transfer approach heavily influenced by whether they secure Champions League football. While Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is currently their primary target, a lack of top-tier European competition could push the Red Devils to pursue a more prominent name. Delap, available for £30 million due to a release clause, has attracted interest from several Premier League sides after a standout season, but United’s financial ability to seal the deal may depend on Champions League revenue.
United manager Ruben Amorim is prioritising reinforcements up front, particularly as Rasmus Højlund has struggled in his second campaign and could return to Italy, where clubs still value him highly. Joshua Zirkzee has been more effective in a supporting role, and young Chido Obi remains untested at the top level. Although United have been linked with various high-profile forwards such as Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen, Benjamin Sesko, and Patrick Schick, their backup plan is now beginning to take shape.
If Champions League qualification falls through, United are expected to make a serious move for Fiorentina’s Moise Kean. According to French outlet FootMercato, the club will consider triggering the striker’s €50 million release clause, which is active for a two-week period in July. Kean has undergone a remarkable transformation since his difficult spell at Everton, flourishing in Serie A with 26 goals for club and country this season. His resurgence has earned him a regular spot in the Italian national team and renewed interest from Europe’s elite.
Kean’s journey back to form includes key goals in domestic and European competitions, a Serie A Player of the Month award, and vital performances for Fiorentina, including a memorable hat-trick and clutch goals in the Conference League. His profile — combining physical strength, speed, and clinical finishing — fits United’s needs if they miss out on the windfall that comes with UCL qualification. Should Amorim fail to deliver a Europa League triumph, United’s forward line could undergo a major overhaul, with Kean leading the charge for a new era at Old Trafford.
