Liam Delap responds to Man Utd & Chelsea transfer interest | OneFootball

Ipswich Town's star striker Liam Delap has downplayed the ever-increasing transfer speculation surrounding him, insisting he is focused on his club's ongoing relegation battle.

The Tractor Boys may found themselves on the wrong side of the dotted relegation line, but Delap's prolific contribution is a major reason why Ipswich have not been cut adrift at the foot of the table. The bruising 22-year-old is one of just 12 players in the division to have hit double digits for Premier League goals, boasting a swollen 43% of Ipswich's overall tally.

The former Manchester City academy graduate was on target again this weekend, firing in the opening goal of a spirited 1-1 draw away to Champions League-chasing Aston Villa.

When confronted with the mounting rumours linking Delap with a move away this summer - Manchester United and Chelsea have both been mentioned - the cool-headed youngster distanced himself from that gossip.

"It is something that I try and stay away from," he warned. "People around me have told me to stay away from it, it's something that I'm very good at in focusing on what I want to do. That's playing football here. I'm really enjoying my time here and I enjoy playing every week. That's the most important thing."

Liam Delap enjoyed his goal against Aston Villa on the weekend / Clive Mason/GettyImages

Delap only joined Ipswich from City over the summer in a deal which could rise to as much as £20m. The reigning English champions reportedly have a buyback clause for the potent forward and are entitled to 20% of his transfer fee in the event of any deal.

"It's so important, especially for me, to focus on where I'm at now," Delap added. "I'm so happy here, I'm enjoying it so much here. I just look forward to playing football. I take every game as it comes and focus on the next."

If there comes a time when Delap can countenance a move away from Ipswich, Chelsea are touted to be one of his most likely destinations. Blues boss Enzo Maresca worked with the powerful forward during their time in City's youth team and has openly praised his former player this season.