David Moyes Opens Up on Everton’s Pursuit of Liam Delap Amid Manchester United and Premier League Giants’ Transfer Battle
Everton boss David Moyes has confirmed that the club has held direct talks with Ipswich Town’s hotshot striker Liam Delap, who is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after young forwards in the Premier League. The 22-year-old England U-21 international, who scored 12 goals in Ipswich’s Premier League campaign, has emerged as Manchester United’s top striker target — but Moyes insists Everton are still very much in the race to secure his signature this summer.
“We have had a chance to speak to him,” Moyes revealed. “He’s spoken to three or four clubs and he’s given us the opportunity to pitch our case. We’re probably a little bit behind the black ball, but you never know what happens.”
Delap, who has a £30 million release clause activated due to Ipswich’s relegation, is attracting intense interest not only from United but also from Chelsea and Newcastle United — two clubs poised to return to Champions League football next season, which could heavily influence his decision. Manchester United recently held face-to-face talks with the striker at Old Trafford, underlining their intent to make him their primary number nine as they look to rejuvenate their attack.
Despite Everton’s current standing outside Europe, Moyes remains optimistic that the promise of regular first-team football and a vital role in his squad’s rebuild will make the Toffees an appealing destination for Delap. Since returning to Goodison Park in January, Moyes has stabilized Everton’s fortunes, steering them clear of relegation and setting the stage for a squad overhaul.
The potential battle for Delap is further complicated by Manchester United’s plans to also pursue Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, signaling their aggressive summer recruitment strategy despite financial pressures.
As the Premier League’s final fixtures loom, the allure of Champions League football may tip the scales in favor of Chelsea or Newcastle, but Everton’s persistence and Moyes’ faith in their project keep them very much in contention for one of England’s brightest young talents.
