Ipswich forward Liam Delap has been granted permission to explore “his options” for the upcoming season, allowing him to engage in discussions with other clubs, as announced by manager Kieran McKenna.
At just 22 years of age, Delap made a significant move to the Tractor Boys from Manchester City last summer in a deal that could reach up to £20 million. However, his time at Ipswich has been overshadowed by the team’s relegation back to the Championship after a single season in the Premier League. This setback has prompted speculation about his future, with several top-flight teams interested in acquiring his services.
Notably, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Newcastle have emerged as potential suitors for the England Under-21 international. Delap’s contract includes a £30 million relegation release clause, providing him with a pathway to exit the club should he choose to do so. Additionally, Manchester City retains a buy-back option, adding another layer of complexity to his possible moves.
“Liam’s looking at his options for next year, which I think he is entitled to do and we support him with that,” McKenna stated. The manager highlighted the importance of this decision for Delap’s career, indicating that the club has granted him permission to pursue conversations regarding his future this week. McKenna acknowledged the considerable interest from various clubs, suggesting that it is a natural outcome considering Delap’s talent and potential.
He further elaborated, “I think part of his week has been having some of those conversations.” The prospect of a summer move appears increasingly likely as multiple clubs show interest, with McKenna noting, “It looks more likely than not that he will move on this summer.” He expressed that virtually every club in the league would find Delap an attractive addition to their squad, affirming his standing as a valuable player.
Despite the buzz surrounding his potential transfer, McKenna was careful to underline that “nothing is sorted, nothing is done or completed or even very, very, very close,” emphasizing that the transfer process will unfold in its own time.
As the season progresses, Delap aims to enhance his impressive record, having notched 12 goals in 36 Premier League appearances to date. Ipswich is set to host West Ham this Sunday at 16:00 BST, providing Delap an opportunity to further solidify his value on the pitch.
The club’s quick return to the Championship was confirmed in April, and with that, Delap’s success in the Premier League stands as a remarkable personal achievement, especially as no other Ipswich player has reached double figures in goals this season. Reflecting on the player’s contributions, McKenna stated, “We will be proud of the part that we have had in terms of Liam’s development and his contribution this season.”
Looking ahead, whether Delap remains with Ipswich or moves on, McKenna remains optimistic. “If he stays with us, we will be delighted, and if he moves on this summer, it will be a positive sign for the club to have developed and sold a player at that sort of level and hopefully it will be a good move for him as well,” he added.
Additionally, the manager confirmed that midfielder Massimo Luongo would depart Portman Road upon the expiration of his contract this summer. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing with defenders Cameron Burgess and Axel Tuanzebe regarding potential contract extensions, signaling the club’s commitment to strengthening its squad for the future.
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