Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has made his assessment on Liam Delap clear as Manchester United consider a summer transfer for the Ipswich Town star.
Manchester United are urgently seeking attacking reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window and have identified Liam Delap as a potential answer to their goalscoring woes.
Ruben Amorim’s side have found it difficult to find the back of the net this season, a problem highlighted in recent fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Manchester City.
Despite creating several clear-cut chances, United came away with just one point from those two matches—a return that could have been very different with a proven finisher in the squad.
Delap has impressed with 12 Premier League goals this season, a remarkable feat considering Ipswich Town’s struggles near the foot of the table.
His standout performances have caught the attention not only of United, but also of other top clubs including Chelsea, setting the stage for a fierce battle for his signature this summer.
Guardiola’s assessment on Delap amid United interest
Of course, Delap previously played for United’s rivals Manchester City and worked under the Spanish manager Pep Guardiola.
“He’s doing really well,” Guardiola said of the ex-City striker before their clash against Ipswich Town earlier this season.
Guardiola believes that the previous work Delap had done at United’s rivals “perfectly” prepared him for life in England’s top flight.
Considering he now has 12 goals in a side that look destined to be relegated, it seems like the City boss was correct in his assessment.
“Many players came up from this Academy. They are set up perfectly in the Premier League,” he continued. “When he was here, always we thought he was a typical striker for the Premier League.
“He’s doing really well and we’re happy for him.”
Delap unlikely to rejoin City
Despite praise from Guardiola, reports suggest that a return to the Etihad Stadium is unlikely for Delap in the summer window.
The Cityzens confirmed a new long-term deal for Erling Haaland earlier this season while also adding Omar Marmoush to their squad in January.
Delap is also said to be carefully considering his next move and wants to ensure he will get consistent game-time. That is something United can guarantee.
There are some concerns within the fanbase that United are looking to sign another young forward. Delap is the same age as Rasmus Højlund, who has struggled to deal with the pressure at Old Trafford.
On the other hand, Delap has showcased his ability to score in an underperforming team in the Premier League. As Guardiola put it, he has been prepared for this and that could prove the difference between him and the Danish striker.
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