Manchester United want to sign a new striker this summer to solve their goalscoring woes, having scored the fifth-fewest goals in the just-concluded Premier League season.
United have been linked with several strikers, but a deal for England youth international Liam Delap looks more plausible, given their reported transfer budget, which is slightly less than £100 million.
Delap was one of the breakout stars in the English top flight this term. He registered 14 goal contributions for Ipswich Town.
The 22-year-old striker has a £30 million release clause following Ipswich’s relegation. United want to complete a deal for him as soon as possible.
However, they face competition for his signature. Newcastle United, Everton and Chelsea are also hot on his trail.
Journalist David Ornstein has hinted at when the Manchester City academy product will decide his next destination.
He told NBC Sports: “Liam Delap is going to be a big name on the agenda. Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle are the three top contenders for him. We are going to get a decision, I think, within the next week or so.”
Delap is expected to feature prominently for England in the U21 European Championship this summer and could decide his next destination before the tournament starts.
Given the fierce fight for his signature, signing the young English striker would be a massive coup for United.
The Manchester outfit are the only side among the top three contenders for his signature that will not participate in next season’s Champions League.
However, technical director Jason Wilcox previously worked with Delap at Man City. He was involved in the Cityzens signing him and could play a vital role in helping United do the same.
If United sign him, it will show that the club remains an attractive destination for players despite their recent struggles.