Manchester United are in the hunt for a new striker, and that is no secret among the clubs in the footballing world. All names seemed to be linked from Victor Osimhen to Matheus Cunha, however, there could be an alternative that will be cheaper and potentially a better option than the two mentioned before.
A former Manchester City prodigee could be heading back to Manchester but with the red side; hopefully with more success than Jadon Sancho.
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Liam Delap has enjoyed a season to remember on a personal level, but with his side is expected to be relegated unless a miracle happens and they somehow avoid the drop by overcoming their 15-point deficit.
The 22 year old has enjoyed a profitable season scoring 13 goals, which in a side that is expected to be relegated is incredibly good. He has drawn many plaudits since arriving in the Premier League in his debut season.
Having only scored eight goals last season for Hull City in the Championship, Delap has proven he has what it takes to play in the Premier League. His old-school attacking presence has impressed pundits and troubled defences throughout the league.
With relegation all but confirmed, the bigger sharks in the Premier League are sniffing around to pick Delap up at a discount price. One of those is Manchester United.
What would Delap bring to Manchester United?
The former England under 21s striker as stated has an "old school number nine" attitude towards striking. A player who is not scared of attacking the ball whether that is in the air or with the ball at his feet; he is very direct.
One accusation that has been thrown at United is their lack of strength and physicality, Delap would help with that up front and make the opposition quake when he comes barraging towards them. However, his hold up play and turn of pace could be the key features as to why Head Coach Ruben Amorim would want him in his system.
With Amorim wanting his team to play with pace on the attack and move the ball quicker, Delap's ability to hold up play and bring the two number 10s into play leading him to burst away to get into the box. The slow nature in how United can attack at times is causing major frustrations for Amorim but with a player like Delap willing to power through at pace and commit full throttle, it could elevate the United attack.
How much would Delap cost?
The major factor this summer in terms of recruitment will be money. With the hopes of Champions League football hanging in the balance of a Europa League victory, hosting a vital second leg against Athletic Bilbao on May 8th, an option like Delap may only be the viable option this summer.
If United do make Europe this year, that is not to say Delap is not a big target. With the rumours of £30 million for the striker, United should explore this option as they look to bolster their frontline.