Romano: Decision expected ‘soon’ – United still holding out hope they can complete ‘dream’ signing after Delap snub

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·31 May 2025

Romano: Decision expected ‘soon’ – United still holding out hope they can complete ‘dream’ signing after Delap snub

As Chelsea hash out the final details of their £30 million move for Liam Delap, Manchester United are scouring the market for alternatives.

The Red Devils were among the likes of Everton, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United to have been snubbed by Delap this week. United’s failure to qualify for Champions League football proved detrimental to their pursuit.

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Delap had been viewed as United’s first-choice centre-forward target heading into the window. His age (22) and cut-price release clause, combined with the fact he’s now proven he can provide the goals in the Premier League – having scored 12 in 37 games for Ipswich Town – made him the ideal candidate.

INEOS made to go back to drawing board after Delap snub

Yet, the situation is now entirely out of INEOS’ hands. No lucrative wage proposal will win over a player who’s simply set on rubbing shoulders with Europe’s elite in the early stages of his career, and Chelsea’s fourth-placed finish ensured he’ll have that opportunity.

In regards to where United’s transfer chiefs set their sights next, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed there remains a lingering hope that they could sway Viktor Gyokeres towards Old Trafford in the coming weeks.

Romano: Gyokeres is the ‘dream’ signing for United

Viktor Gyokeres is being targeted by numerous top European sides. (Getty Images)

The Sporting Lisbon talisman bid farewell to the side’s supporters in the final game of the campaign amid an acceptance that he will be on the move this summer.

His unfathomable numbers have seen him become one of the most sought-after forwards on the continent; Gyokeres finished 2024/2025 with 54 goals to his name in 52 appearances. Across the two seasons he played under Ruben Amorim, he recorded 66 goals in 68 outings.

However, as was the case with Delap, the Sweden international, 26, is keen on playing UCL football, which could see United’s chances scuppered once again if he opts for another suitor, such as Arsenal.

When addressing the Reds’ striker search at the end of week, Romano told GiveMeSport: “There are several candidates, but Manchester United will make a decision on their priority target soon.

“The dream has always been Viktor Gyökeres, but it will be difficult without Champions League qualification.”