Liam Delap Set For Ipswich Exit As Premier League Giants Circle

Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap is expected to leave the club this summer. After their relegation from the Premier League, clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea are already in talks with the 22-year-old forward.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna confirmed that the club has given Delap permission to explore his options. Delap is considering his choices ahead of next season. “Liam’s looking at his options for next year, which I think he is entitled to do and we support him with that. I think we have given him permission to do that this week,” said the coach. The 22-year-old has already met with Chelsea and Manchester United, with more clubs expected to show interest in the coming days.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Delap’s departure seems inevitable after Ipswich’s Premier League relegation. Despite a poor season for the club, Delap has been a top player, scoring 12 goals in 36 Premier League games. His impressive form has attracted interest “from pretty much every club in the league,” according to McKenna, who added that “there aren’t many clubs in the world who wouldn’t want to have him.” The striker’s contract includes a £30 million ($40m) release clause that is triggered by Ipswich’s relegation.

RACE FOR EUROPEAN FOOTBALL

Manchester United’s pursuit of Delap may depend on their Europa League final result against Tottenham Hotspur. The Red Devils have identified Delap as their priority target for a new center-forward this summer, ahead of other options like Viktor Gyökeres and Victor Osimhen. However, Chelsea’s guaranteed European football next season could give them an advantage if United do not win the Europa League final. The Blues have already secured a top-seven Premier League finish and could even clinch a Champions League spot by beating Nottingham Forest in their final match of the season.

WHAT NEXT FOR DELAP?

Although no deal has been finalized yet, McKenna acknowledges “it looks more likely than not that he will move on this summer.” Delap is taking time to carefully consider his options, with a decision expected after the Europa League final. After just a year at Portman Road since joining from Manchester City, the young striker now faces a major decision that will shape the next phase of his promising career. Everton have also reportedly been granted permission to speak with Delap, with manager David Moyes expressing interest in securing his services.