Man Utd hold face-to-face talks with Delap as transfer race for striker ramps up

MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly held face-to-face talks with Liam Delap over a £30million move from Ipswich.

The striker, 22, has emerged as a top target for Ruben Amorim after banging in 12 Premier League goals this season.

Chelsea are also interested in snapping up Delap, who has an active £30m release clause following Ipswich’s relegation to the Championship.

But the forward appears to be favouring an Old Trafford switch after holding direct talks with United chiefs.

The Athletic reports Ipswich gave Delap permission to travel to Manchester after he came off the bench in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Leicester.

It allowed United the opportunity to sell their vision to the ex-Man City starlet.

But the Red Devils are yet to make a formal offer for Delap as they focus on Wednesday’s Europa League final.

United are also looking to strengthen their frontline with the signing of Wolves' Matheus Cunha.

And it’s believed a deal is close with Cunha all-but agreeing personal terms.

Again, United are yet to meet the Brazilian’s £62.5m release clause.

But internally, they have decided to trigger it once the season comes to an end as Wolves brace for an official approach.

A host of other top forwards also remain on United’s shortlist.

Viktor Gyokeres, who starred under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, and Victor Osimhen, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, remain options for the No9 position.

Meanwhile, Brentford’s Bryan Mbuemo is still in contention for a supporting role in attack.

But for now, it’s Delap and Cunha who are leading the way for United at a combined cost of £92.5m.