Liam Delap chooses Chelsea as rivals fall away in £30m race

Liam Delap has made his choice. After a breakout Premier League season with Ipswich Town, the 22-year-old forward has set his sights on Chelsea—a move that could soon accelerate talks between clubs, according to The Athletic.

Delap scored 12 goals in his first top-flight campaign, and with a £30 million release clause in his Ipswich contract, he has emerged as a viable target for several clubs. But with the player signalling his preference, Manchester United, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Everton have all stepped aside, The Athletic reports.

A reunion rooted in trust

This transfer is more than a financial equation. Delap previously worked under Enzo Maresca at Manchester City U21 during the 2020–21 season, where he scored 27 goals in 22 matches. Speaking after Ipswich faced Chelsea in April, Maresca recalled:

“I’ve known him for five or six years. It’s not just the numbers—his presence on the pitch stands out. If he stays on the right path, he can become a top-level player.”

Chelsea’s approach reflects more than short-term needs. The club’s long-term attacking identity is being reshaped, and Delap is viewed as a cornerstone investment rather than just a depth option.

United shift funds toward Cunha and elite targets

Delap’s decision has ripple effects—especially for Manchester United. The club has opted to commit £62.5 million of its reported £100 million summer budget to the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, according to BBC and Sky Sports. The deal is expected to be paid in three instalments and will significantly limit United’s flexibility for other moves.

As a result, more cost-effective transfers like Delap have been deprioritised. But that doesn’t mean United are out of the market. The club is now focusing on elite-level forwards who can start immediately.

According to The Guardian, Sporting CP are demanding at least €80 million (approx. £67m) for Viktor Gyökeres. Meanwhile, The Telegraph reports that RB Leipzig expect around £93 million (approx. €110m) for Benjamin Šeško, despite a release clause closer to €80 million.

UEFA rules tighten the balance

Deals of that magnitude require more than scouting—they demand financial balance. With UEFA tightening Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations from the 2024–25 season onwards, clubs like United will likely need to sell players before committing to high-profile purchases.