Liam Delap has told Manchester United he wants to join Chelsea this summer, with the striker expected to leave Ipswich Town when the transfer window opens next month. The 22-year-old's £30m release clause is set to become active after Ipswich's relegation to the Championship, and he has informed United of his preference for a move to Stamford Bridge.
Delap scored 12 Premier League goals for Ipswich this season, attracting interest from several clubs. Everton were among those to have sounded him out, with manager David Moyes noting that Delap had spoken to "three or four clubs". United had previously been confident of signing the England under-21 international, but their dismal 15th-place finish and failure to qualify for European football after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham appear to have weakened their appeal.
Chelsea, by contrast, clinched a Champions League spot by finishing fourth and added the Conference League title with a win over Real Betis. Personal connections have also played a key role: Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca coached Delap during his time in Manchester City's academy, while recruitment director Joe Shields helped secure Delap's move from Derby to City in 2019.
Delap is keen to finalise the move before representing England under-21s at the European Championship, with their campaign opening against Czechia on June 12. Chelsea are willing to meet the release clause, which could expedite negotiations. United, meanwhile, are close to a £62.5m deal for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, but had hoped to sign Delap as well in a double swoop.
Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna confirmed the striker has been given permission to explore his options. "Nothing is sorted, nothing is done or completed," McKenna said, adding that "it looks more likely than not that he will move on this summer".
