Chelsea, Liam Delap transfer update emerges with Man United & Newcastle chasing Ipswich Town star | OneFootball

Liam Delap's future at Ipswich Town has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks

Chelsea are optimistic of winning the race to Liam Delap’s signature amid competition from Manchester United for the Ipswich Town forward.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, a decision is expected by the player this week, with a move away from Portman Road increasingly likely.

The forward signed for the Tractor Boys last summer, and impressed many with his performances in the Premier League.

He contributed 12 goals and two assists, with Kieran McKenna’s side coming 19th in the table in their first year back in the division.

Liam Delap’s future transfer hangs in the balance amid Premier League scramble

It is expected that Delap will make a decision this week on his future amid speculation over the next step in his career.

Chelsea are reportedly optimistic about securing a deal due to Man United’s lack of European competition next year.

The Blues secured a place in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on the final day of the season, sealing fourth in the table.

It has been reported by ESPN that Man United have agreed terms with Delap and are ready to pay the £30 million relegation release clause in his contract, but are still waiting for the green light from the player to go ahead with the deal.

It was claimed by Teamtalk earlier this week that showdown talks also took place between the striker and Newcastle United, who also secured Champions League qualification on the final day despite a defeat to Everton.

Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that David Moyes has also discussed a potential move with Delap, as the Toffees look to bolster their attacking options this summer.

Delap signed for Ipswich last summer from Manchester City in a deal worth a reported £20 million, as per the BBC.

He arrived as part of a five-year deal that will keep him at Portman Road until the summer of 2029.

However, it’s understood that the forward has an exit clause in his contract worth £30 million that can be triggered following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Ipswich Town are resigned to losing Liam Delap - Kieran McKenna needs to start finding a replacement

Ipswich will lose Delap this summer and there’s not much they can do to convince him to stay at this point.

Chelsea and Newcastle can offer regular minutes in a team competing in the Champions League, while the Tractor Boys are back in the Championship.

The £30 million fee they will receive is good business considering it’s a profit on the money paid to sign him just 12 months ago.