Ipswich striker Liam Delap is attracting serious interest from some of the Premier League’s top clubs after a stellar start to the season.
The 21-year-old forward, who joined Ipswich from Manchester City in the summer for a reported £20 million, has been a bright spot in a challenging campaign for the newly promoted side.
Delap’s impressive record of six goals in 12 Premier League appearances has placed him firmly on the radar of England’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.
According to The Athletic, the England under-21 international is expected to draw formal approaches next summer if his form continues.
🚨 Liam Delap only joined Ipswich in July but leading clubs already looking at for summer. If form continues #ITFC may lose 21yo amid ‘big 6’ interest; #CFC + #MUFC tracking, #MCFC can buy back
➕ Latest on #AFC #LFC #NUFC #THFC #RMFC & more @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/BuX5qXirBm— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) November 29, 2024
Man City Hold the Upper Hand in Race to Sign Liam Delap
Manchester City, Delap’s former club, may have the advantage when it comes to securing the striker’s signature.
The reigning champions are known for inserting buy-back or matching rights clauses into transfer deals for their academy products, potentially giving them an edge over their Premier League rivals in any future negotiations.
Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna has attempted to downplay speculation about Delap’s future, claiming he has no knowledge of a buy-back clause in the striker’s contract. McKenna stressed the need to focus on the present, saying:
“My full focus is on this season and, with regards to Liam, trying to help him to continue to improve. I know Liam’s full focus is here and trying to help the team.”
🚨 Chelsea admire Liam Delap. (@David_Ornstein) #CFC pic.twitter.com/2vFLZZgViB
— Pys (@CFCPys) November 29, 2024
Ipswich’s Premier League Survival Hopes Rest on Liam Delap
Ipswich, who earned promotion last season under McKenna, have endured a tough start to life in the Premier League.
Despite recent encouraging results—a win against Tottenham and a draw with Manchester United—the Tractor Boys remain in the relegation zone on goal difference, with just nine points from 12 games.
Delap has been central to Ipswich’s attacking efforts, scoring six of their 13 league goals this season. His form will be crucial if the club hope to avoid relegation.
McKenna acknowledged the forward’s progress while noting the challenges of adapting to Premier League football: “This is really his first season starting regularly as a number nine… and he’s doing it at Premier League level.”
