Manchester United and Chelsea set to battle for Liam Delap | OneFootball

Manchester United are now eyeing Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap as their key target in the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old forward has been placed ahead of Victor Osimhen and Benjamin Sesko on the Red Devils’ shortlist, according to ESPN.

Manager Ruben Amorim is keen on signing a mobile, hardworking striker who can press from the front. Delap fits that profile.

The young striker has been one of Ipswich’s standout performers this season under Kieran McKenna.

He has bagged 12 goals and two assists in all competitions for the Tractor Boys.

City’s contract clauses could scupper move for Delap

Delap left Manchester City last summer for £20 million. However, City included several key clauses in his Ipswich contract.

The Premier League champions can re-sign the striker for £40m, but that option is unlikely to be activated.

City are well covered in attack, especially after Erling Braut Haaland signed a new nine-and-a-half-year deal in January.

However, City could benefit from a future sale. They hold a 20 percent sell-on clause, meaning they will earn from any profit Ipswich make.

Chelsea have also shown strong interest in Delap. The Blues are in the market for a natural centre-forward to push Nicolas Jackson.

Manager Enzo Maresca previously worked with Delap during his tenure as Man City’s academy team boss, which could give Chelsea an advantage if they make a formal approach this summer.

Man United are considering several players, including Viktor Gyokeres, Osimhen and Sesko. However, Delap is their primary target.

If Ipswich are relegated to the Championship, selling Delap to Man United or Chelsea will help them raise funds to fuel a promotion bid next season.