Liam Delap ‘friends’ reveal ‘immediate’ Man City move news.
Liam Delap, the talented young striker, could be set for a return to Manchester City, according to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness. Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness claimed that Manchester City might consider activating the buy-back clause they reportedly included when selling Delap to Ipswich Town in the summer. Such a move would allow City to sell him on to another club for a significant profit. Wyness highlighted the growing interest in Delap, particularly among Premier League clubs searching for striking reinforcements.
Liam Delap, 21, left Manchester City during the last transfer window to join Ipswich Town, signing a five-year deal. However, Football Insider previously reported in November that City retained a buy-back clause in the agreement, allowing them the option to reacquire the England Under-21 international. Delap has since impressed at Ipswich, delivering strong performances and amassing eight goals and two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions this season.
Wyness revealed during the podcast that friends of his, who have closely monitored Delap’s career, rate the striker highly. He described Delap as a “classic forward” with all the qualities required to excel at the top level. According to Wyness, Delap’s physicality, pace, youth, and skill set make him a highly desirable prospect for several clubs in need of attacking options.
Manchester City’s potential buy-back of Delap might not be motivated by a desire to reintegrate him into their squad. Instead, Wyness suggested it could be a strategic move to facilitate a profitable resale. This approach is not uncommon for City, as the club often includes such clauses in transfer deals to retain control over promising players’ futures. Wyness also noted that Delap’s potential return to City could depend on the club’s pursuit of other targets, such as Omar Marmoush. If City successfully secure other attacking reinforcements, they may be willing to bring Delap back solely for resale purposes.
Delap’s performances have not gone unnoticed beyond Ipswich, as he has reportedly attracted the attention of Premier League giants Chelsea, along with other top-flight clubs. His form this season, combined with his potential and experience at the youth international level, has made him a player in high demand. Wyness believes that Delap would fit well into many Premier League sides, given the widespread need for quality strikers in the league.
Manchester City’s strategy of including buy-back clauses in transfer deals has often allowed them to maintain leverage over their former players’ careers. For Delap, this could mean a swift return to the Etihad Stadium, followed by a move to a new club willing to pay a premium for his services. The speculation surrounding Delap’s future underscores his growing reputation as one of England’s most promising young strikers.
In summary, Liam Delap’s future remains uncertain, but a return to Manchester City could be on the horizon. Whether for reintegration or resale, City’s interest in the 21-year-old highlights his value as a rising star in English football. With Premier League clubs reportedly lining up for his signature, Delap’s next move will be one to watch.
