The transfer market has started to move with intensity in England, and one of the names that has started to generate noise is that of Liam Delap. The England striker has shone for Ipswich Town this season, putting in performances that did not go unnoticed in the Premier League. His ability to pin defenders down, his constant energy and his movement between the lines have caught the eye of a number of clubs. Now, both Chelsea and Manchester United have turned their attention to him. The competition between these two giants of English football could test the priorities of the young striker, who will have to make a key decision for his career.
TBR Football has reported that Chelsea have been trying to finalise a deal for Delap for several weeks. The previous connection with Enzo Maresca, with whom he coincided in the Manchester City ranks, gives them a point in favour. However, the situation changed with Manchester United’s entry into the saga.
Why Liam Delap will choose Manchester United over Chelsea
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, as relayed by TBR Football, the Red Devils’ qualification for the Champions League could complicate matters for the Londoners. The Ipswich striker would welcome a return to the north-west of England, a region he knows well. Although Delap appreciates Chelsea’s interest and has a positive relationship with key figures at the club, his inclination seems to lean towards Old Trafford.
Manchester United hold the edge over Chelsea in Liam Delap transfer pursuit.
Liam Delap is just the striker who might fit the needs of Manchester United.
In addition, United would be willing to pay the £30m release clause. Those around the club believe that no departures are needed to make room for him, which could speed up the deal. Delap seems clear about his desire to continue to grow, and that ambition puts him squarely on the radar of a United side looking for freshness and dynamism in attack.
“So the names that I’m hearing are Ipswich’s Liam Delap, competition there, Manchester United. And I am told that the bad news for Chelsea may be if Manchester United win the Europa League, Delap is quite keen on United and they’re ready to pay that £30million clause. United sources say they don’t need outgoings. And it’s not to say that Delap doesn’t appreciate the Chelsea pitch and he’s very well known to people like Enzo Maresca and also Joe Shiels. It’s more that Delap is quite intent on going back to the north west if he can.”
On a more analytical note, it makes perfect sense for Liam Delap to consider a move to Manchester United seriously. Firstly, it is a question of style; the 3-4-2-1 formation that Ruben Amorim has been using needs a striker with mobility, the ability to attack space and not be confined to the box. Delap fits that mould perfectly. He is aggressive in high pressing, knows how to combine with the midfielders, and moves well into space when the team launches transitions.
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Secondly, his youth plays in favour of a project that relies on developing players. United needs more goals, but also more aggressiveness in the final third. Delap, not yet carrying the weight of the expectations of an established star, can bring just that: constant presence in the attack, work off the ball and verticality.
With Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho feeding the attacking front, Delap could grow up surrounded by quality without having to be the immediate central focus. If he accepts the challenge, he could end up being one of the club’s most profitable bets. It’s not every day that a young striker comes along who possesses physical power, tactical intelligence and a hunger for goals. Manchester United should do everything in their power to close the deal. And Delap, if he is thinking about his development, would do well to accept.