Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly leading the race to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap in the summer transfer window.
Liam Delap’s breakthrough campaign with Ipswich Town has caught the attention of some of England’s biggest clubs. After making the bold decision to leave Manchester City in search of regular minutes, the 22-year-old striker has flourished at newly-promoted Ipswich Town, scoring 12 goals and two assists in the Premier League despite the club’s struggles at the bottom of the table.
Now, with Ipswich Town staring down the barrel of relegation, Delap could be on the move once again. According to Fabrizio Romano via Give Me Sport, both Chelsea and Manchester United are leading the charge for the England Under-21 international.
A £30 million release clause in his contract, activated if Ipswich Town are relegated, makes him an appealing target for clubs searching for a young, Premier League-proven striker. Meanwhile, Bundesliga clubs are also keen on signing him.
The battle of the fallen giants
Delap’s physicality, sharp movement, and finishing ability have made him one of the most promising forwards in the league. While Bundesliga sides have also shown interest, Romano confirms that Chelsea and United are currently ahead in the race to secure his signature this summer. Both clubs are in need of forward reinforcements, and Delap offers a blend of potential and Premier League experience that is rare in players his age.
Manchester United, in particular, are enduring an inconsistent season in front of goal. With Marcus Rashford and Antony likely to leave and the team lacking depth behind Rasmus Hojlund, Delap could provide both competition and a long-term solution in attack. In a new-look side expected to be led by Ruben Amorim, United are looking for youthful, high-upside players. Delap fits that mould perfectly.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are continuing their aggressive youth-focused recruitment policy. With Nicolas Jackson still finding his feet and Christopher Nkunku battling injuries, Delap could offer a different profile — one that suits both Enzo Maresca’s approach and the club’s long-term ambitions.
Delap’s progress this season is no fluke, as he is proving he can score goals even when surrounded by a struggling team. That kind of resilience and consistency speaks volumes. For both Chelsea and Manchester United, he represents value, potential, and a homegrown edge that fits Premier League squad requirements. With a £30 million release clause, he may be one of the best striker deals available this summer. The only question is who moves fastest. Either way, Delap’s next step looks set to be a big one.
