Manchester United are reportedly preparing a summer move for Liam Delap, who is also on the radar of Chelsea and Liverpool, according to ESPN.
United endured a stuttering start under Ruben Amorim but have shown signs of progress in recent weeks, even if results remain inconsistent.
A Europa League triumph would not only provide a silver lining to their season but also secure Champions League football — a major financial boost. They face Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-finals of the competition.
Despite financial challenges, Amorim will be backed in the transfer market, with a new No.9 high on the agenda. While United are tracking Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, and Victor Osimhen, Delap has emerged as a preferred target.
Ipswich Town signed the 22-year-old from Manchester City for £20m last summer but are now open to offers of around £40m as relegation looms.
This makes him a more affordable option than United’s other striking targets. City hold a 20% sell-on clause and a £40m buyback option, but are unlikely to trigger it given their depth in the forward line.
Chelsea are also eyeing Delap as they look to strengthen their attack, while Liverpool could enter the race should Darwin Núñez or Mohamed Salah depart.
In his debut Premier League season, Delap has netted 12 goals and provided two assists in 30 appearances, offering glimpses of his potential. For United, he could prove a smart and cost-effective addition to their frontline.