Manchester City is reportedly considering the possibility of re-signing Liam Delap, a move that could reunite the club with one of its brightest academy products.
The 21-year-old striker, currently excelling at Ipswich Town, has been turning heads in the Premier League with his impressive performances this season.
A Promising Start at Ipswich
Delap joined Ipswich Town in the summer of 2024 for £20 million, seeking regular first-team football. The decision has paid off handsomely, as the young forward has already netted six goals in his debut season.
His form hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Premier League giants like Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Brighton reportedly monitoring his progress. However, Manchester City could also make a move to bring him back to the Etihad.
Filling the Gap in City’s Attack
Manchester City allowed Julian Alvarez to leave for Atletico Madrid earlier this year, leaving them without a clear alternative to Erling Haaland. Delap could address this gap, offering a versatile attacking option.
Capable of playing as a central striker, out wide, or even as a No. 10, Delap brings a dynamic skill set that could complement Haaland rather than merely acting as his backup.
City manager Pep Guardiola has previously praised Delap, describing him as “special” and “a killer, a typical British striker, an incredible finisher.” This glowing endorsement highlights why the club is keeping a close eye on his development.
Buy-Back Clause a Key Factor
When Delap moved to Ipswich, Manchester City included a 20% sell-on clause and, crucially, a buy-back option reportedly worth over £30 million. This strategic move indicates the club’s belief in his long-term potential. Sources suggest that City is “delighted” with Delap’s progress and is seriously considering activating the buy-back clause in 2025 to strengthen their forward line.
Delap’s Journey: From Derby County to the Premier League
Delap began his football journey at Derby County, where his father, Rory Delap, also played. Manchester City signed him at the age of 16, and he quickly rose through their academy ranks, even making a handful of senior appearances before his move to Ipswich.
Guardiola has been vocal about Delap’s unique qualities, calling him “different” and a player with “special quality” who stands out in the modern game.
A Bright Future Ahead
While City is no stranger to allowing young talents to flourish elsewhere, Delap’s performances suggest he could become a key player at the Etihad.
Unlike other recent academy graduates, such as Cole Palmer, whose move to Chelsea did not include a buy-back clause, Delap’s return seems more plausible given City’s proactive measures to retain control over his future.
As the January transfer window approaches, speculation will likely intensify about Delap’s next step. Whether he continues to shine at Ipswich or makes a high-profile return to Manchester City, one thing is clear: Liam Delap is on the path to becoming one of England’s most exciting young talents.
