Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap this summer as they look to bolster their attacking options.
A new No. 9 is a top priority for manager Ruben Amorim, with both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling to provide a consistent goal threat.
While Amorim had hoped to reunite with Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish forward’s soaring value—after netting 34 goals in 35 games for Sporting Lisbon this season—makes a deal financially challenging for United. As a result, the club is exploring alternative options, with 22-year-old Delap emerging as a serious candidate, according to The Athletic.
Delap has impressed in his first full Premier League season, scoring nine goals in 21 appearances. His growing reputation has even led to suggestions he could be a future successor to Harry Kane in the England setup.
The striker, who came through Manchester City’s academy, is well known to United’s technical director Jason Wilcox, who oversaw his development during his time at City.
After loan spells with Stoke City, Preston, and Hull, Delap made a permanent switch to Ipswich last summer in a £20 million deal. Manchester City, however, retain a £40 million buyback clause.
United have been monitoring Delap closely, but they face competition from Chelsea. Ipswich, aware of the growing interest, will demand a significant fee, and while relegation could lower their valuation, United’s own financial constraints could complicate a potential move.
The Red Devils have struggled in front of goal this season, with only Everton and the league’s bottom three teams scoring fewer goals. Hojlund, who scored 16 in all competitions last season, has managed just two league goals this term and is currently on a 14-game drought. Zirkzee, meanwhile, only recently ended his scoring dry spell with a tap-in against Leicester City in the FA Cup.
With United in desperate need of a reliable finisher, Delap is now firmly on their radar as they weigh their summer transfer options.