Man Utd told striker 'prefers Reds over Chelsea' and has been 'won over by Amorim vision'

Liam Delap, one of the brightest young English strikers in the Championship, has made it clear he prefers a move to Manchester United over Chelsea this summer.

According to reports from The Scottish Sun, the Ipswich Town forward is expected to command a fee of around £30 million, and a deal could be finalized in the coming weeks as United look to inject fresh firepower into their struggling frontline.

Delap, 22, scored 12 goals and contributed two assists in the 2024–25 season, standing out in a side that ultimately suffered relegation.

Despite the club’s drop, Delap’s performances — combining strength, pressing, and a natural striker’s instinct — have turned heads across the Premier League.

The former Manchester City academy star is reportedly keen to return to the north west, and the possibility of linking up with Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford has boosted United’s chances of securing his signature.

Though Chelsea are also interested, with manager Enzo Maresca having previously coached Delap at youth level, United now appear to be in pole position.

A source close to the negotiations told The Scottish Sun: “Liam’s preference is Manchester United. He believes in the manager’s vision and sees a clearer path to regular football at Old Trafford.”

The striker's wage demands — a reported 500% increase on his current salary — have raised some eyebrows.

However, United are thought to be willing to accommodate these figures if other high earners like Sancho, Casemiro, or Rashford are sold this summer to free up space on the wage bill.

Delap would be seen as a direct competitor to Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, both of whom have struggled to deliver consistent goals this season. Amorim is known to favour high-pressing, versatile attackers — and Delap’s profile fits the bill.

With United also targeting Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, a Delap signing could provide needed squad depth and future potential. As the rebuild intensifies at Old Trafford, Delap may represent not just a signing for today — but one for the next era.