DEAL SIGNED: Manchester United finally completes dream signing as Most wanted striker signed six-years contract
Manchester United have agreed ‘the framework of a deal’ for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, according to ESPN.
The Red Devils have informed Ipswich that they will activate Delap’s £30 million release clause if he chooses to move to Old Trafford.
They now await the decision of the England youth international regarding his next move.
The 22-year-old is also a target for Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Everton, making the deal competitive for United.
Everton have held face-to-face talks with the former Manchester City academy star but will likely miss out on his signature.
United, Chelsea, and Newcastle are reportedly the leading contenders for the young centre-forward.
Delap could decide his preferred destination this week, ending speculation about his future.
Delap could decide his preferred destination this week, ending speculation about his future.
The English striker and Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha are Man United’s primary attacking targets.
United need a striker this summer, as Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to deliver consistently in front of goal.
The duo managed just seven Premier League goals between them this season – five fewer than Delap’s tally for Ipswich.
Zirkzee could remain at the club, having impressed as a number 10 in manager Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.
However, United may consider parting ways with Hojlund this summer as they plan a significant squad clear-out due to their absence from European competitions next season.
Senior figures at the club are said to have lost confidence in the Denmark international and are now open to offers for his services.
Hojlund could return to Serie A, with Inter Milan and Juventus reportedly interested in him.
Further departures are expected as United look to streamline the squad and reduce their wage bill.
While United have the finances to secure Delap, additional sales would be required to fund further reinforcements.
Manchester United’s interest in **Liam Delap** signals a clear shift in their attacking strategy under the new regime. Here’s a summary of the key developments:
### **Delap Deal – Current Status**
* **Framework of a deal agreed** with Ipswich Town.
* United are prepared to **activate Delap’s £30m release clause**.
* Awaiting Delap’s **final decision** amid strong competition from **Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Everton**.
* **Everton have met him face-to-face**, but they’re seen as outsiders now.
### **Why United Want Delap**
* Delap scored **12 Premier League goals** for Ipswich — outperforming **Hojlund (6)** and **Zirkzee (1)** in the league.
* At 22, he fits INEOS’ **youth-driven, data-informed recruitment model**.
* Has the physicality and work rate to fit **Ruben Amorim’s pressing system**.
### **United’s Striker Situation**
* **Zirkzee** could stay but may be used more as a **supporting forward or No. 10**.
* **Rasmus Hojlund** is **at risk of being sold** following inconsistent performances.
* Senior figures at the club have **lost confidence** in the Dane.
* **Inter Milan and Juventus** are monitoring his situation.
### **Finances & Squad Overhaul**
* United are planning a **major squad clear-out** to:
* Reduce the **wage bill**.
* Balance finances due to **no European football**.
* While United can afford Delap’s release clause, **further sales** are likely required to support more reinforcements like **Matheus Cunha**.
### **Outlook**
* **Delap is expected to decide** this week, and if he chooses United, the club will act swiftly.
* A Delap signing would likely **signal the end for Hojlund** at Old Trafford.
Would you like a comparison between Delap, Hojlund, and Zirkzee based on their recent seasons?
