Ruben Amorim is expecting to see his options bolstered sufficiently. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
After sealing a deal to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Liam Delap is next on Manchester United’s agenda.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Sunday evening that the Red Devils and Wolves had finally reached a ‘verbal agreement’ that sees Cunha, who will wear the No.10 shirt, make the move to Old Trafford on a five-year deal, plus the option of an additional season. His £62.5 million release clause will be paid in instalments.
As such, United are now able to turn their attention to other targets, with Delap said to be INEOS’ first-choice No.9 to rival – or perhaps replace – Rasmus Hojlund next season.
After Cunha: United prepare to ignite Liam Delap pursuit
The Ipswich Town talisman saw his 2024/2025 campaign culminate with a 20-minute cameo off the bench against West Ham. His side’s relegation had been set in stone since April 26, meaning they’d just been playing for pride in their final fixtures of the term.
Delap, hailed as something of a ‘Harry Kane heir’, notched an impressive 12 goals and two assists in his 37 league appearances, which is a pretty notable feat, given it was his first season consistently leading the line for a top-flight club.
How plausible is a deal for Delap?
Fortunately for his suitors, Ipswich dropping back down to the Championship ensured the forward would be available for £30m as opposed to £40m if they retained their place in the division. The release clause was added when he completed his £20m move from Manchester City last summer.
Battling the Reds for Delap’s signature are Chelsea, Everton and Newcastle United. In recent weeks, it’s been suggested he was prioritising the chance to play European football next term – something only Chelsea and the Magpies can offer.
However, Ben Jacobs claims that while playing in a top European competition ‘was viewed as important’ to the 22-year-old, United ‘feel their pitch was strong and that Delap is keen on a return to the North West’.
He is expected to make his decision ‘imminently’, presumably before he jets off to represent England at the U21 Euros, kicking off on June 11.
Liam Delap is expected to decide his future this week before heading off to the Under-21 Euros. He remains Manchester United’s top choice.
Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton have also all held talks.
Delap wants guarantees of minutes to boost his chances of World Cup selection.… pic.twitter.com/fcKNuHmm4Q
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 26, 2025
