Liam Delap is preparing to make a definitive decision on his future in the coming days.
Indeed, the sought-after centre-forward has garnered concrete interest from four Premier League sides in the build-up to the window opening; Chelsea, Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle United have all been in contact to table their proposals in hopes of coming out on top for his signature.
Of the quartet, it’s thought the Red Devils and Chelsea have been the front-runners amid their ongoing searches for prolific goalscorers. Now, Delap is close to making his mind up – and it doesn’t spell good news for INEOS.
Journalist: Liam Delap now favouring Chelsea
Ben Jacobs revealed on Wednesday evening that the 22-year-old was ‘leaning towards’ a move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are ‘closing in’ on a deal to activate his £30 million release clause from Ipswich Town, with United’s failure to qualify for a European competition next season proving detrimental to their pursuit.
Reports had already suggested that Delap was adamant about plying his trade among Europe’s elite in the Champions League, giving Chelsea a major upper hand to negotiate his arrival.
United forced to pursue Delap alternatives
Delap was viewed as United’s first-choice target to occupy the striker position from 2025/2026, despite Rasmus Hojlund now having two campaigns worth of top-flight experience under his belt and being contracted to the club until 2028.
Unfortunately for Ruben Amorim, the Dane has regressed in his sophomore term – he ended 2024/2025 with six fewer goals than in 2023/2024.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 24/25 | 32 | 4 | 1 |
| 23/24 | 30 | 10 | 2 |
*Rasmus Hojlund in both his Premier League seasons, as per Transfermarkt
It remains to be seen where the Reds will turn their attention next, especially given the financial implications of losing the Europa League final.
They are, however, waiting to welcome Matheus Cunha to the club on a five-year deal, having agreed to activate his £62.5m release clause, which will be paid in a lump sum followed by instalments over two years.