Manchester United have reportedly agreed personal terms with Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap but must wait for the player to give the green light before completing a £30m transfer.
The 22-year-old forward impressed in the Premier League this season despite Ipswich's relegation, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists in 37 appearances.
According to ESPN, United have agreed the framework of a deal for Delap and informed Ipswich they will meet the £30m release clause in his contract. The clause became active following the Tractor Boys' drop to the Championship.
Personal terms have already been agreed with Delap's representatives, meaning the transfer could move quickly once the England Under-21 international makes his decision.
However, United face stiff competition for his signature. Chelsea and Newcastle are both reportedly keen on the striker, who emerged as one of the few bright spots in Ipswich's difficult campaign.
The Red Devils' inability to offer Champions League football could prove crucial in Delap's decision-making process. United endured a disastrous season, finishing 15th in the Premier League before losing the Europa League final to Tottenham.
That European defeat not only denied Ruben Amorim's side a major trophy but also cost them a route back into the Champions League. Previous reports suggested European football could be a deciding factor for Delap.
The striker's impressive goal return in a struggling side has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs. His pace, movement and clinical finishing made him a standout performer despite Ipswich's immediate return to the second tier.
United have already been busy in the transfer market. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Sunday that Wolves forward Matheus Cunha will join for £62.5m, with the Brazilian set to sign until 2030.
Reports also suggest United are monitoring Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze as Amorim looks to rebuild his struggling squad.
Former United midfielder Gordon Strachan expressed doubts about the club's transfer strategy. Speaking to Beste Online Casino Nederland, he said the signings of Cunha and Delap would not solve the club's deeper problems.
"What the club needs is someone to bring all these players together and shape them into becoming Manchester United players," Strachan said.
The wait continues for United as Delap weighs up his options. With personal terms agreed and the release clause ready to be activated, the ball is now firmly in the striker's court.
