Report: Newcastle Weigh Move for £40m Forward as Transfer Battle Heats Up | OneFootball

Newcastle United Target Liam Delap in Summer Transfer Push

Newcastle United are reportedly stepping up their interest in Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window. According to Football Insider, Eddie Howe’s side have been monitoring the 22-year-old striker closely, with scouts tracking his performances throughout the season. With Ipswich facing a likely relegation, Delap could be available for a big-money move, with an asking price set at around £40 million.

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Why Newcastle Want Delap

Newcastle’s interest in Delap is driven by a clear need for reinforcements in the forward line. As Football Insider notes, Newcastle are preparing for the departure of Callum Wilson, whose contract expires this summer. The Magpies are seeking a dynamic, young striker capable of leading the line in the long term, and Delap fits the profile.

Former Manchester United and Sunderland scout Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that Newcastle have “had scouts having a look at him this season.” Brown added that Delap is “strong, he works hard, he causes trouble for the opposition centre-halves and he scores goals.” These attributes make him an appealing target for a Newcastle side that has struggled with attacking consistency this season.

The Competition for Delap’s Signature

Newcastle are not alone in their pursuit of the Ipswich star. Football Insider previously reported that both Manchester United and Chelsea are also interested in securing Delap’s services. The striker himself is “desperate” to remain in the Premier League, which adds further intrigue to the race for his signature.

Despite Ipswich’s struggles this season, Delap has managed to impress, scoring 10 goals in 27 starts. His physicality, pressing ability, and knack for finding the net have made him one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing campaign for the newly promoted side. With Ipswich set for relegation, the likelihood of his departure increases with each passing match.

Is Delap Worth £40 Million?

Ipswich Town have reportedly set an asking price of £40 million for Delap, a valuation that has sparked debate. Brown believes the striker is worth that sum, stating, “When you look at the going rate for a top striker, I think he’s worth that and I can see clubs being willing to spend that money.”

In today’s market, clubs are frequently paying premium fees for young, talented forwards with Premier League experience. Newcastle must decide whether Delap is the right investment for their long-term project or if alternative options, such as Porto’s Samu Aghehowa—also linked with the club—offer better value.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Newcastle’s interest in Delap is understandable but not without risk. While the young striker has proven his ability in a struggling Ipswich side, a £40 million price tag is a significant gamble for a player with only one full season in the Premier League.

Newcastle need a reliable goalscorer, especially with Wilson set to depart, but is Delap the right choice? His strengths—work rate, physical presence, and finishing—are all traits that fit Howe’s system. However, at 22, he is still developing, and there’s no guarantee he will deliver immediate results at a club with European aspirations.

Additionally, with competition from Chelsea and Manchester United, Newcastle must act swiftly if they genuinely see Delap as the long-term solution. If Ipswich do get relegated, other clubs may try to negotiate a lower price, making the summer window even more competitive.

Ultimately, if Newcastle are looking for a young, hungry forward with Premier League experience, Delap is a viable option. However, the club must weigh whether a £40 million investment in him is the right move or if a more established striker would be the better choice to help them push for European football.