Everton face an uphill task in their pursuit of Chelsea and Manchester United target Liam Delap.
Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap has become one of the most sought-after young forwards in English football, and it is no surprise that Premier League giants are circling. Sources have confirmed that Chelsea and Manchester United are both showing serious interest in the 22-year-old, while Everton have also joined the race, but face a tough battle to stay in contention.
Delap has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the Premier League with Ipswich, netting 12 goals and providing two assists in 33 appearances. His recent form, including goals in back-to-back matches against Bournemouth and Wolves, has only strengthened his growing reputation. Despite Ipswich Town’s likely relegation, Delap’s personal stock has never been higher.
Release clause makes a deal for Liam Delap easier
The England Under-21 international remains under contract at Portman Road until 2029, but a £40 million release clause, triggered in the event of relegation, has opened the door for top-flight clubs to swoop in. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are expected to capitalise on this, knowing that securing young, homegrown attacking talent is a priority for their long-term planning.
According to Football Insider, Everton, while admirers of the player, face an uphill task. With financial constraints and mid-table status, the Toffees lack the pulling power of their more illustrious rivals. The club’s transition to the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium may be an exciting chapter. But it may not be enough to lure a player of Delap’s potential when the likes of Chelsea and United are offering bigger platforms and brighter prospects.
A show of Merseyside ambition
David Moyes’s return to Everton brings renewed energy and stability, but that alone may not be enough to sway Delap’s camp. Sources close to the situation suggest it would be a “huge coup” if the Toffees were to land the striker, indicating that, while there is admiration, there is also realism about the club’s position in the pecking order.
Chelsea and Manchester United both offer not just the lure of top-tier football and bigger wages, but also development pathways under managers who value integrating youth. For Delap, the decision will likely come down to which project offers him the best chance to grow and compete at the highest level.
The 22-year-old looks ready for a step up, and it is no wonder top clubs are circling. His physicality, composure, and finishing make him an ideal modern striker. While Everton’s interest is understandable, they are punching above their weight in this race.
Manchester United and Chelsea not only have the financial clout but also offer greater long-term ambitions. If either of them activates that £40 million clause, Everton will likely have to look elsewhere. Still, credit to the Toffees for aiming high — it shows ambition, even if the odds are not in their favour.
