Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly positioned ahead of Everton in the race for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.
The England Under-21 international is said to have peaked the interest of a host of top-flight clubs this season, including the Red Devils of Manchester.
Despite Ipswich's major struggles, Delap is enjoying positive form since returning from the international break, scoring in back-to-back matches versus Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 22-year-old has taken to the top flight like a duck to water during the 2024-25 season, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists across 30 appearances.
Nevertheless, Delap and Ipswich look destined for an instant relegation to the Championship, sitting 12 points adrift of 17th-placed Wolves in the Premier League table.
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Man United, Chelsea at 'front of queue' for Delap
According to Football Insider, there has been an important update regarding a possible destination for Delap ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
The report claims that Manchester United and Chelsea are currently leading the race for the services of the highly-rated striker this summer.
It is understood that Everton will seriously struggle to bring Delap to Bramley Moore Dock, with prospective switches to Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge highly attractive to the Englishman.
Only arriving at Portman Road from Premier League champions Manchester City in July 2024, Delap is contracted to Ipswich until the summer of 2029.
However, the 22-year-old has a relegation clause in his deal, meaning that he will be available for £40m should Kieran McKenna's men end up in the Championship.
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Delap's next destination
Firing in a modest eight Championship goals across 32 appearances for Hull City last term, Delap has improved his game significantly to become a consistent poacher in the Premier League.
With the excellent teachings of Man City's academy in his mind and feet, the 22-year-old is undoubtedly ready to remain in the top flight past the conclusion of this term.
Delap has the potential to become a legend at Everton in their new stadium, while a high-profile move to either Man United or Chelsea could hand the striker a better chance of making England's 2026 World Cup squad.
Carter White
