Newcastle United beating Ipswich Town yesterday put Liam Delap firmly in the Premier League shop window.
The Tractor Boys were relegated with four games remaining as Eddie Howe marked his Toon return with a convincing 3-0 win. And with that, Delap’s relegation release clause became active.
Potential suitors can now stump up just £30million for a striker enjoying a fine breakout season. Despite playing in a poor side, Delap has netted 12 top-flight goals to attract interest from Newcastle, Manchester United and Chelsea.
The Telegraph reported last week that the Magpies are keeping tabs on the 22-year-old’s situation. As it stands, Alexander Isak’s status as undisputed first-choice on Tyneside appears the key stumbling block.
Isak is regarded as one of Europe’s best strikers and game time was the key reason why Delap left Manchester City last summer. However, added fixture demands next season means Newcastle need a trusted backup option.
Callum Wilson has looked like a fading force at 33 and is yet to score a Premier League goal this campaign. Will Osula impressed against Ipswich but remains raw and has featured out wide during his cameos.
Delap’s directness and pace make him tailor-made for Eddie Howe, who has a track record of developing English talent. Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have all excelled and gone on to play for England under the Toon boss.
Man United and Chelsea have been linked as possible destinations to solve their striker woes. The transfer saga is underway after Newcastle took Delap’s future out of Ipswich’s hands with a routine 3-0 win.
Kieran McKenna honest on Liam Delap’s future
Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna insisted Delap can play for the best teams in the country before the Newcastle clash. He optimistically suggested the striker could also stay at Portman Road next season.
“Liam’s focus is still here, and finishing the season as strong as what it will be,” McKenna said. “I think there’s certainly a possibility that he’s an Ipswich player next year. Can Liam play for the biggest clubs in the country, the biggest clubs in the world? He certainly can, I fully believe that.
“He’s already shown the impact he can have at Premier League level in a team that has been fighting for everything, and I think he can have an outstanding impact at this level.”
