Man Utd turn to SHOCK striker target as doubts emerge over Delap transfer

Manchester United’s search for a new striker this summer could lead to a shock target after uncertainty emerged in their pursuit of Liam Delap.

United have already laid plans to heavily spend this summer, with a €75 million transfer for Matheus Cunha close to an agreement, while Delap is thought to be the club’s top target up front.

READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Cunha to Man Utd BOMB, Man City eye England international

However, Delap’s £30m (€35m) relegation release clause at Ipswich has made him an attractive target to many clubs including Chelsea and now Newcastle, both of whom could be playing in the Champions League next season along with Arsenal after FootballTransfers exclusively revealed their interest earlier this week..

United, too, could secure Champions League football through lifting the Europa League but Ruben Amorim’s side have seemingly outlined alternative plans by making contact with Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to CaughtOffside.

Mateta has been in fine form this season, having netted his 14th Premier League goal of the season against Arsenal this week, and Palace are already thought to exploring replacements for the Frenchman in anticipation of the interest in their top scorer.

The 27-year-old could also be preferred to Delap due to his experience as a proven Premier League scorer, particularly if United end up keeping Rasmus Hojlund around for depth next season.

READ MORE: Man Utd top scorers 2024/25

United hoping to have edge over rivals in striker pursuit

Mateta is in his fourth full Premier League season after joining Palace in 2021 and the ex-Mainz forward could be available for a cut-price as he enters the final year of his contract.

United have also considered European-based strikers such as Victor Osimhen but the Nigerian would require a significantly larger transfer fee and salary, making his move a non-starter.

Mateta, meanwhile, is thought to be admired by the likes of Bayern Munich and Juventus but the Palace man could prefer to stay in the Premier League with United, particularly with the likelihood of first team football at Old Trafford.

However, United’s preference is thought to be for Delap and they will hope the 22-year-old opts for more realistic minutes with them rather than a more likely chance of European football with Newcastle or Chelsea.

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