Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap has reportedly met face-to-face with Manchester United officials as the Red Devils intensify their summer transfer efforts. The 22-year-old forward, who signed with Ipswich just last summer, is now at the center of a potential blockbuster move following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.
Despite a challenging season for Ipswich, Delap’s individual performance stood out—he scored 12 goals across 36 appearances, making him a hot prospect for several top-tier clubs. A key factor in the growing interest is a £30 million release clause in his contract that was activated by Ipswich’s drop to the Championship, positioning him as an appealing bargain in the current inflated market.
Manchester United, who are eager to strengthen their attacking options after an inconsistent campaign, are among the leading contenders. According to The Athletic, Delap traveled to Manchester to engage in direct discussions with club executives. “He wants more details on what the deal might look like,” reported a source close to the situation.
However, Delap’s decision is far from finalized. While United is a major draw—especially with the potential of Champions League football if they win the upcoming Europa League final against Spurs—the striker is reportedly planning to hold similar discussions with other interested Premier League sides.
For Ipswich, Delap’s exit has long seemed inevitable. With the release clause confirmed, club officials have accepted that they’ll lose one of their brightest stars. Their focus now shifts to finding a replacement who meets manager Kieran McKenna’s tactical demands. The recruitment team is already exploring options for a new number nine capable of leading the line in their push for promotion next season.
The timing of the transfer is also important for Ipswich, as they hope for a swift resolution that allows them to reinvest and rebuild quickly. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Delap, who is weighing the allure of Old Trafford against other opportunities.
In a pivotal summer for his career, Delap will be watching closely as Manchester United battles Spurs—an outcome that could heavily influence where he laces up his boots next season.
