Manchester United are back in Premier League action on Sunday afternoon with Ruben Amorim seeking a result at Bournemouth.
Ruben Amorim’s full focus may well be on the Europa League as Manchester United prepare to face Athletic Club.
United face Athletic in the Europa League semi-finals this week, heading to Bilbao for the first leg.
United have a chance to win a trophy and book a spot in the Champions League for next season, which would certainly aid the Ineos rebuild.
The transfer window is looming, and whilst Sunday’s trip to Bournemouth offers United a chance to build some momentum before heading to Spain, one top target is now available.
Photo by Michael Driver | MI News/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesLiam Delap release clause confirmed amid Manchester United interest
United need attacking reinforcements this summer, so the added financial reward and prestige of Champions League qualification would surely help.
United are closing in on Matheus Cunha, with the Wolverhampton Wanderers star expected to arrive this summer.
The Brazilian would be a huge addition as a number 10 in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, but United would still need a centre forward.
United want Liam Delap and are allegedly preparing to a activate his release clause as soon as the transfer window opens.
Delap can leave Ipswich Town for £30million this summer, but that clause becoming active was dependent on the Tractor Boys suffering relegation.
Ipswich were beaten 3-0 at Newcastle United on Saturday, meaning they are now officially relegated to the Championship.
The door is now open for United to swoop in and meet that release clause, potentially bringing Delap to Old Trafford.
United will not be alone in the race for Delap, but Ipswich’s relegation means the striker will almost certainly be on the move this summer.
Jason Wilcox will hope to secure Liam Delap
So many Premier League clubs will be looking to sign Delap this summer.
A big, physical striker who has shown a real ability to drive at defenders and go past them with ease, Delap has the potential to become a complete striker.
The 22-year-old isn’t close to being there just yet, but he has managed 12 goals in 33 Premier League games this season, despite playing for a struggling side.
United will face competition for Delap, but Jason Wilcox will hope to be a key factor here.
Wilcox oversaw Delap’s development in the Manchester City academy ranks and is well aware of the potential in his locker.
Delap may face an award reunion with Noussair Mazraoui, but the striker could be a vital addition to Amorim’s side.
We can see some similar traits between Delap and Amorim’s former Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres, the man who became a superstar under Amorim.
United may see similar potential in Delap, with Wilcox no doubt selling him on the idea of becoming United’s leading striker for years to come.