Personally I wanted to sign Either Isak or Gyokeres but Ruben Amorim preferred another striker and I can’t oppose him”: Man United’s owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe names the only striker Ruben Amorim told him to sign at all costs this summer. RUBEN LOVES THAT MORE THAN ISAK OR GYOKERES.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe Reveals Amorim’s Preferred Striker as Man United Make Liam Delap Top Target
Manchester United’s pursuit of a new centre-forward is gaining momentum, and it appears the club has now set their sights on a surprising name. Club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently admitted he had hoped to sign either Alexander Isak or Viktor Gyökeres this summer, but head coach Rúben Amorim has reportedly insisted on a different option.
According to a report by ESPN, Manchester United have made Liam Delap, currently with Ipswich Town, their number one target to strengthen their struggling attack. United’s frontline has struggled this season, managing just 37 goals in 31 Premier League matches, highlighting the urgent need for a reliable finisher.
Delap, who moved to Ipswich from Manchester City for £20 million last summer, has made an immediate impact. The 22-year-old has scored 12 goals and registered two assists in 30 league appearances. If Ipswich is relegated—which now seems likely—Delap will be available for a cut-price fee of £40 million due to a release clause in his contract.
Although Manchester City inserted a buy-back clause for the same amount, they currently have no plans to re-sign him, especially with Erling Haaland locked in with a long-term contract. However, City are entitled to 20% of any profit Ipswich earns from a future sale.
United’s move for Delap is seen as a more financially practical decision compared to high-profile targets like Osimhen (with a reported £110 million release clause), Gyökeres (around €100 million), and Šeško (who may remain at RB Leipzig). Budget limitations and a shift towards younger, Premier League-ready talents have made Delap the ideal candidate.
Delap’s physical strength, hold-up play, and aerial ability make him a classic No.9—something United have lacked in recent years. His shot conversion rate of 20% underlines his efficiency in front of goal. In comparison, Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have only managed six league goals between them all season.
Amorim sees Delap as a perfect fit for his system, especially with the possibility of having fast wingers like Garnacho and Rashford operating around him. His presence would allow midfielders such as Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, or even potential summer target Eberechi Eze to join the attack with more freedom.
If the deal goes through, signing Delap for £40 million could be a shrewd, cost-effective move with long-term benefits. It’s a bold strategy to prioritize a rising Premier League talent over more expensive, established stars—but one that could pay off handsomely if the youngster continues his current form.
