Ben Jacobs: “Delap is Man Utd’s Number One Target” | OneFootball

Liam Delap edges closer to Man Utd switch

Manchester United have made significant progress in their pursuit of Liam Delap, with the Ipswich Town striker now understood to favour a move to Old Trafford over other options. As summer transfer plans begin to take shape, United’s ambitions appear focused on revitalising their attack with a double swoop, with both Delap and Matheus Cunha firmly on the radar.

Delap’s desire to return to the north-west, where his family roots lie, has given United a vital edge in the race for his signature. While Chelsea remain keen and maintain strong internal support for the 22-year-old—particularly from manager Enzo Maresca—Delap is reportedly leaning towards Manchester, with the Red Devils now considered front-runners.

Transfer momentum builds with double deal in play

Despite enduring a historically poor Premier League campaign, Manchester United’s recruitment efforts ahead of the 2025/26 season are gathering momentum. Ruben Amorim’s side sit 16th, marking their worst-ever finish since the Premier League’s inception, but early activity in the window suggests a response is already underway.

The club has, as per reports, reached a verbal agreement to activate Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m release clause from Wolves. And now, multiple sources indicate United are prepared to push through a second major deal—this time for Delap—with an offer of around £30m being readied.

Combined, the double swoop for Cunha and Delap would cost United £92.5m, a substantial outlay signalling intent to address their attacking shortcomings with urgency and clarity.

https://x.com/JacobsBen/status/1921885671288877154

Delap transfer timeline and decision factors

While United are confident, Delap’s final decision could hinge on whether his next club can offer Champions League football. Writing on X, journalist Ben Jacobs outlined how the situation may unfold in the coming weeks.

Importantly, the England Under-21 forward is said to want his future resolved before joining the national side for the U21 European Championships in June, providing a soft deadline for clubs to make their intentions clear.

Chelsea’s interest remains but United lead race

While Chelsea continue to monitor Delap closely, TEAMtalk’s transfer insider Graeme Bailey reports that the Stamford Bridge outfit have not matched the financial robustness of United’s proposal.

Wages are expected to play a key role in Delap’s decision, with United currently offering the more attractive terms. Even in the absence of European football, Old Trafford still holds significant appeal for the young striker, though Champions League qualification would offer an additional incentive.

Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney believes the move would suit both parties.

With both clubs jostling for position, and United confident in their proposal, the race for Liam Delap’s signature is set to be one of the more intriguing sagas of the summer transfer window.