Premier League big boys ‘target summer move’ for Ipswich hotshot Liam Delap – with one side having the upper hand due to clause in his contract

Ipswich Town star Liam Delap is reportedly being tracked by Premier League giants after his impressive start to the season.

Delap joined the newly promoted Tractor Boys in the summer in a deal worth a reported £20million.

The forward signed a five-year deal following his move from Man City.

Delap has scored six goals in 12 Premier League appearances this season, with his form reportedly drawing interest from the top flight’s elite clubs.

According to the Athletic, there is an expectation Delap could move to a ‘Big Six’ club next summer should he be able to maintain his form.

Both Chelsea and Man United are reportedly among the England under-21 international’s admirers.

Delap has impressed for the Tractor Boys this season, scoring six of their 13 league goals

Chelsea and Man United are reportedly among the clubs tracking the Ipswich forward

The report claims Man City could scupper their rivals, with the Premier League champions typically included buy back or matching rights clauses in most of their sales. 

Despite Delap’s form in front of goal, Ipswich are currently in the Premier League relegation zone.

Kieran McKenna’s side have earned nine points from their opening 12 matches of the season.

The Tractor Boys, however, are only in the bottom three on goal difference and have been boosted by a surprise win over Tottenham and draw against Man United in their last two matches.

Their hopes of staying in the top flight could hinge on Delap maintaining his form, with the forward having contributed six of their 13 Premier League goals this season.

Relegation from the top flight would likely impact the asking price Ipswich could demand for the forward.

McKenna had attempted to play down reports of interest in Delap, with the Ipswich boss claiming he is unaware of Man City having a buy-back clause. 

The England under-21 international has caused trouble for defences with his physical approach

Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna has played down reports that Delap could leave the club

‘It’s not anything I’m aware of or interested in to be honest,’ McKenna said this week. ‘I think that’s a question for other people.

‘My full focus is on this season and, with regards to Liam, trying to help him to continue to improve. I know Liam’s full focus is here and trying to help the team.

‘He’s had a good start to the season, but we have to remember that’s it’s very early stages for him. This is really his first season starting regularly as a number nine. 

‘This is his first season doing it week-in, week-out, maybe doing it two times a week, and he’s doing it at Premier League level.’