Manchester United and Chelsea have received a major boost in their pursuit of striker Liam Delap following Ipswich Town’s relegation from the Premier League.
Delap, 22, impressed in his first top-flight season, scoring 12 league goals despite Ipswich’s struggles. His performances immediately caught the eye of bigger clubs, and with Ipswich’s confirmed drop back to the Championship after a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle, Delap’s departure now seems all but inevitable.
While Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna remains hopeful of keeping the young star, their position has been weakened significantly. Delap’s £30 million release clause has officially been activated following the relegation — giving clubs like United and Chelsea a clear path to swoop in once the summer transfer window opens on June 1.
United, in particular, are eager to strengthen their attack. They are expected to spend £62.5m on Wolves forward Matheus Cunha but are still in the market for a second striker, with Delap and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen among their top targets.
McKenna praised Delap’s growth this season but admitted the striker is capable of playing at the very highest level.
“Liam’s focus is still here, but can he play for the biggest clubs in the world? Absolutely,” McKenna said. “He’s shown he can have a real impact in the Premier League. He’s still young, still learning, but he’s developing really well and has a bright future.”
While McKenna left the door open for Delap to stay, the combination of Premier League interest and a now-active release clause suggests Ipswich fans may have already seen the last of him in their colours.