Liverpool Face Competition for Ipswich Striker as Chelsea Prepare £50m Bid | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Liam Delap as Potential Darwin Nunez Replacement

Liverpool’s transfer strategy is already in motion for the summer window, with reports suggesting that Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has been identified as a potential replacement for Darwin Nunez. According to TBR Football, the Reds have been monitoring the young English striker closely, with multiple scouting trips taking place since the start of the year.

Scouting the Market for Nunez’s Successor

While Liverpool’s first season under Arne Slot has been largely successful—challenging for the Premier League title and securing a place in the Carabao Cup final—the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are already looking ahead. Key players such as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are in talks for new contracts, but uncertainty remains around Nunez’s future.

“According to TBR, Liverpool are already lining up potential replacements for Nunez and have identified Ipswich striker Delap as a potential target.”

Despite the Uruguayan’s contributions at Anfield, TEAMtalk reports that there was significant interest from the Saudi Pro League in January. Sources claim Nunez is open to a move to Saudi Arabia this summer, which could prompt Liverpool to reshape their attacking options.

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Liverpool’s Interest in Liam Delap

Delap, 22, has caught the attention of Liverpool’s recruitment team with his all-round striker play and physical presence. His Ipswich teammate Alex Palmer has described him as “a monster”, praising his versatility and strength in front of goal.

TBR Football reports that Liverpool have “stepped up their interest” in signing Delap, with the club keeping a close watch on his development. However, they are not alone in the race.

“The Premier League leaders are reported to have “stepped up their interest in signing” Delap from Ipswich.”

Newcastle United, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and Aston Villa have all been linked with the former Manchester City academy product.

Chelsea’s Position in the Delap Chase

Liverpool’s pursuit of Delap is further complicated by Chelsea’s firm interest. TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher reported on February 4 that Delap is the Blues’ top attacking target for the summer, with sources suggesting the Ipswich forward is open to a move to Stamford Bridge.

“TEAMtalk understands that Delap himself would be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.”

Chelsea are preparing a £50m bid including add-ons, which could test Liverpool’s resolve if they decide to formalise their interest. Ipswich, currently battling relegation, are aware of the likelihood of Delap leaving, making a summer transfer highly probable.

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Liverpool’s Summer Transfer Plans

Beyond the striking position, Liverpool are also weighing up moves for other reinforcements. TBR Football mentions the club’s growing interest in Dean Huijsen, the towering young centre-back who has impressed on loan at Roma.

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool are considering an £84m bid for PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé, a player who shone against them in the Champions League Round of 16.

Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has urged the club to extend Mohamed Salah’s contract, believing there is no real benefit in the Egyptian moving to Saudi Arabia.

“If you were in the shoes of the owners, you’d give him two years with a one. I don’t think he will go to Saudi Arabia, what is the point?”

With Salah’s future, Nunez’s situation, and defensive reinforcements all on the table, Liverpool’s transfer strategy this summer looks set to be both ambitious and carefully calculated.

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Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The potential signing of Liam Delap is intriguing but raises questions. While his performances at Ipswich have shown promise, is he the right player to replace Nunez, a striker Liverpool spent £85m on just two years ago?

Delap’s strengths—physicality, pressing ability, and an eye for goal—align with what Liverpool typically look for in a forward. However, his lack of experience at the highest level is a concern. Moving from Ipswich to Liverpool is a significant leap, and competing for a starting role at Anfield is a different challenge altogether.

If Nunez leaves, Liverpool will need a proven goal scorer, not just a promising young talent. Chelsea’s reported £50m bid also raises eyebrows—would Liverpool really want to enter a bidding war for an unproven Premier League forward?

The more pressing issue for supporters is Mohamed Salah’s future. With his contract winding down, Liverpool must prioritise keeping their talisman before making major moves in the market. If Nunez stays and continues to develop, Liverpool’s attack may not need a major overhaul at all.

Ultimately, Delap could be a solid long-term investment, but Liverpool fans will likely demand a more proven name if Nunez departs this summer.