Everton are Set to Battle Man United in the Race to Sign £30m Striker – Report | OneFootball

Everton Enter Liam Delap Race as Moyes Seeks to Hijack Manchester United Move

As the Premier League season winds down and teams begin finalising their plans for the summer transfer window, Everton’s interest in Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap is making headlines. TeamTalk recently reported that both Everton and Manchester United are actively pursuing the 22-year-old England U21 international, whose performances this season have clearly caught the eye.

This blog explores the implications of this developing story, assessing Delap’s impact, potential fit at Goodison Park, and the transfer tug-of-war that is now in full swing.

Delap’s Breakout Season: A Silver Lining for Relegated Ipswich

Despite Ipswich Town’s immediate return to the Championship after just one season in the Premier League, Liam Delap has emerged as one of their few bright spots. The powerful 6ft 1in striker has netted 12 goals and contributed two assists across the campaign, numbers that have understandably put top-tier clubs on alert.

While Ipswich were officially relegated with four games to spare – a disappointing end marked by a 21st loss from 34 games – Delap’s individual performances did not go unnoticed. His physicality, instinct in front of goal, and work ethic have prompted serious interest from bigger clubs, particularly as Ipswich’s demotion has triggered a clause in his contract.

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TeamTalk confirmed: “Valued at £40m by Ipswich, their relegation from the Premier League means a clause in Delap’s deal can see the player leave Portman Road for a fixed fee of £30m.”

That clause, alongside Delap’s demand for a 500% wage increase, puts this deal squarely in the realm of serious contenders – and both Manchester United and Everton are sharpening their strategies.

Moyes Confirms Interest Amid Stiff Competition

Following Everton’s 2-2 draw with Ipswich, David Moyes openly acknowledged the club’s interest in Delap. “He would be one who we would certainly have an interest in,” Moyes stated. “I think what he probably has to look at will probably be bigger than what we are. So, we would certainly be interested if he was interested in us. That’s for sure.”

This rare candour from Moyes speaks volumes about both Everton’s ambitions and their understanding of the current transfer climate. Moyes knows full well that Everton face an uphill battle, especially with Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United now placing Delap at the top of their striker wishlist.

Fraser Fletcher of TeamTalk revealed: “The race is currently being led by Manchester United, who have made Delap their top priority to come in as a new No 9 this summer.”

United’s Striker Struggles Make Delap a Key Target

It’s no secret that Manchester United have struggled to find consistency up front this season. Amorim’s side has scored just 39 goals in 34 league games – a figure that ranks them among the league’s worst in attacking output.

Their pursuit of Delap aligns with plans to rejuvenate their forward line, with Matheus Cunha already close to signing. TeamTalk reports that “optimism is growing that Delap can quickly follow on too.”

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It’s a logical step for United, who need a player that combines strength with technical ability – both attributes Delap has displayed in abundance throughout a difficult campaign with Ipswich.

Bramley-Moore Beckons: Why Everton Still Have a Case

While United offer the prestige of European football and global exposure, Everton do have some selling points of their own. With the move to Bramley-Moore Dock on the horizon for the 2025/26 season, Everton are on the brink of a historic transition.

Moyes will want to build a team capable of matching the ambition of their new home, and a high-profile signing like Delap would send a clear message. Moreover, Everton can offer the 22-year-old more guaranteed playing time, potentially a decisive factor in his development and England prospects.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Everton supporter, there’s a cautious optimism around the club’s interest in Liam Delap. At 22, he ticks every box for a player who could lead the line at Goodison Park for years to come. His blend of size, mobility, and finishing has been forged in the chaos of a relegation battle – the perfect grounding for Premier League resilience.

Yes, Moyes’ admission that Delap may be looking for “something bigger” is honest, but not necessarily defeatist. Everton have a track record of developing strikers, from Romelu Lukaku to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and they can offer Delap regular minutes, a clear tactical role, and a place in what could be a revitalised side under Moyes.

The new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock will be a beacon for recruitment. Bringing in a talent like Delap could signal the beginning of a fresh, ambitious era. And with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract running down, the timing makes sense. Delap wouldn’t just be a signing – he’d be a statement.

If Everton can match the financials and sell the vision, there’s every reason to believe they could compete with United for his signature.