The Europa League final result is said to ‘make or break’ Manchester United’s chances of signing two exciting stars this summer.
Manchester United are looking to bolster Ruben Amorim’s attacking options in the upcoming summer transfer window, amid ongoing concerns about the team’s goal-scoring struggles this season.
Although Alejandro Garnacho continues to show potential, his end product remains inconsistent, and Rasmus Højlund has yet to establish a clinical presence in front of goal.
Liam Delap has now emerged as United’s primary target to lead the attack next season. The striker is available for £30 million after a release clause was triggered following Ipswich Town’s relegation from the Premier League.
A product of Manchester City’s academy, Delap has registered 12 goals and two assists this season, and United believe he has the talent to grow into a key player at Old Trafford.
Europa League final will ‘make or break’ Delap deal
It was reported earlier this week that Delap visited United’s training ground to discuss the potential transfer – something that he is set to do with all interested parties, including Chelsea.
ESPN have claimed that the Reds would be the favourites to bring the 22-year-old in if they are able to secure Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League final.
United face off against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on Wednesday evening, and Delap is said to want to play European football next term – the game could be make-or-break for the deal.
Should they lose the game, the aforementioned report states that Chelsea’s ability to offer European football next season will strengthen their position to sign the forward.
While Champions League qualification is not yet secured, Chelsea’s league position means they are likely to at least be playing Europa League football next term.
Gyökeres deal also depends on Europa League final
Even if United sign Delap, it feels like another striker is needed – especially since there is some doubt about whether Rasmus Højlund will be at the club next season.
Viktor Gyökeres is another target for the club and the Sporting star has a close relationship with Amorim after they worked together in Portugal. The prospect of signing both has been described as an “incredible” double swoop.
Arsenal are said to be the main competitors for his signature, but United’s chances of bringing the 26-year-old in would greatly increase if they win the Europa League final. If not, it seems very unlikely that they’d be able to sign him.
Whether or not the club are able to secure the signings of Delap and Gyökeres together remains to be seen, but it could be possible that United miss out on both of them if they cannot get over the line in Bilbao.
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