Manchester City, the Premier League champions, are apparently keeping an eye on Liam Delap’s development at Ipswich Town in preparation for a possible return.
The 21-year-old has been in outstanding form for Kieran McKenna’s side since joining the Premier League newcomers at the start of the season, instilling confidence in a forward line that is beginning to pay dividends this season.
Delap has five goals and an assist in seven Premier League games, and he came close to adding to that number in the 1-1 draw with Manchester United last time out.
Growing performances and improved standards across his game are beginning to pique the interest of some of Europe’s top clubs, including his former employers at Manchester City, who remain involved in the player’s future despite the sale.
As is customary for Manchester City and their sales of the brightest young talents within the club, those negotiating deals frequently include a number of stipulations that ensure the Premier League champions remain financially invested in the players’ careers.
According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, City are presently tracking Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap following his departure from the Etihad Stadium during the previous summer transfer window.
As part of that agreement, the Premier League winners included a buy-back clause in the deal with Ipswich, as well as a sell-on clause, allowing them to financially gain from the striker’s next move away from the Tractor Boys.
According to the report, Manchester City officials would consider bringing the England youth international back to the Etihad Stadium when the clause becomes operative next summer.
Unfortunately for Delap, given the existence of Erling Haaland, the striker is anticipated to settle for a secondary role at Manchester City if he agrees to a dramatic return to the club in the future.
Barring a radical change in style from Pep Guardiola, Manchester City are expected to stick with a single striker setup. Delap, on the other hand, has been seen playing in more versatile roles or as a backup striker.
With that being said, Manchester City’s transfer priorities are likely to lie elsewhere in the coming markets, with shortcomings having been highlighted on various occasions in the defensive midfield position in particular.
