Why Man Utd face significant disadvantage in Liam Delap transfer pursuit as Bundesliga giants join race against Chelsea - explained

Delap has enjoyed success in his debut campaign at Portman Road, as he has managed to score 12 Premier League goals in 33 appearances. The 22-year-old forward has thus attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, including English Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle United.

Per journalist Ben Jacobs, Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig have also joined the transfer race for Delap, who is yet to make up his mind on his next destination. The journalist added that the Ipswich star is prioritising European football next season and will wait until the end of the 2024-25 campaign to make a final call. The only way Manchester United can play in Europe next year is if they win the Europa League, where they have reached the last-four stage. The Red Devils also have Wolves forward Matheus Cunha in their shortlist, and the Brazilian is reportedly ready to move to Old Trafford irrespective of whether the club play in Europe.

Delap reportedly had a £30 million ($40m) relegation release clause in his contract, which is now active after the Tractor Boys went down from the top division following their 3-0 defeat at Newcastle last Saturday.

Kieran McKenna's side will next travel to Merseyside, where they face Everton at Goodison Park in the Premier League on Saturday.