With Liam Delap heading for the exit door, Ipswich Town have reportedly made their first move in an attempt to replace their star man with a Manchester City gem this summer.
Chelsea closing in on Delap move
Whilst it seemed as though it was Manchester United in the driving seat in the race for his signature, Delap has handed the Red Devils an unexpected rejection and is reportedly heading to West London. As revealed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have even already booked a medical to sign the Ipswich star after triggering his bargain £30m release clause.
Although Delap's pending departure is an undeniable blow, it's one that Ipswich would have been expecting ever since their Premier League relegation was confirmed and the forward's cheap release clause was revealed.
Manager Kieran McKenna, perhaps more than most, will be well aware of the impact that Delap's exit could have. The Ipswich boss was as honest as ever when speaking about the rumours linking the former Manchester City gem with a move away from Portman Road, recently telling reporters: "Liam's looking at his options for next year, which I think he is entitled to do and we support him with that.
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna
"I think we have given him permission to do that this week. It's a very important decision for his future. Of course there is a lot of interest - and rightly so. I think part of his week has been having some of those conversations."
As frustrating as his departure will be, Ipswich have already moved on quickly this summer with reports now suggesting that they've made their first approach to sign a potential replacement.
Ipswich make first approach to sign £10m Mubama
According to Romano, Ipswich have now made their first approach to sign Divin Mubama from Manchester City this summer. The 20-year-old forward is a player with plenty of promise and showcased his potential for City's youth side by scoring an impressive 17 goals in 15 games throughout the campaign.
Now, he could ready for first-team football and will cost Ipswich £10m if they push on with their move this summer.
It should come as no shock to see those at Portman Road turning their attention towards Manchester City's academy for a second time. Their move for Delap, despite their relegation, remains impressive and one year on they could repeat that stroke of genius by signing Mubama.
Ipswich Town's Liam Delap reacts Related
[If "sensational" Ipswich star leaves, it would be as disastrous as Delap](https://www.footballfancast.com/if-ipswich-star-leif-davis-leaves-it-would-be-as-disastrous-as-delap/ "If "sensational" Ipswich star leaves, it would be as disastrous as Delap")
Ipswich Town could also lose this sensational star away from just Liam Delap leaving Portman Road.
Described as "strong aerially" by analyst Ben Mattinson, the Manchester City talent could replace both the goals and physical presence that Delap often offered McKenna's side across the last 12 months. For £10m, all signs are pointing towards a player full of promise.