Man Utd could miss out on primary target as Fabrizio Romano reveals ‘direct meeting’ with EPL rivals | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano reveals that Manchester United are facing stern competition for Liam Delap, as another Premier League club is trying to convince the young striker to join its ranks.

The Red Devils are desperate to sign a new centre-forward following Rasmus Hojlund’s miserable second campaign at Old Trafford.

The Dane only scored four times in the Premier League. While his Europa League form was a slight upgrade, he failed to inflict the damage in the final against Spurs.

Therefore, the fans have been dreaming of a top-notch bomber who can tend to the club’s wounds, with the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen repeatedly linked with a move to Carrington in recent weeks.

Why Man United turned to Delap

(Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

However, these profiles have become increasingly unlikely to arrive after the UEL blow and missing out on the Champions League prize money.

Therefore, Liam Delap has been identified as the most plausible transfer target to bolster the attack. The 22-year-old is a Manchester City youth product who had his EPL breakthrough campaign with Ipswich Town.

Although he managed to impress by scoring 12 league goals, they weren’t enough to salvage the Tractor Boys.

Delap can free himself from his contract with his current employers through a £30 million release clause, and he’s expected to join either Man Utd or Chelsea.

But according to Romano, Everton are gaining significant ground in the race, as they have recently held talks with the player in an attempt to sway him.

Everton determined to beat Man Utd & Chelsea for Liam Delap

David Moyes has been trying to convince the up-and-coming striker that signing for the Toffees would be the ideal move at this stage of his career.

While many Man United supporters would consider missing out on Delap as a blessing in disguise, as they aren’t entirely convinced by his credentials, especially given the similar circumstances that accompanied the arrival of Hojlund two years ago.

Nevertheless, with a limited transfer kit, who’s to say that INEOS’ next target will be more inspiring?