Everton are set to make Liam Delap their primary transfer target and are going to go “all in” for the Ipswich Town centre-forward, report iNews. Delap has scored 12 goals in 33 appearances in the Premier League so far this season.
The Toffees are bracing for a dramatic summer where as many as 15 players (including those on loan) are going to be out of contract. As such, a rebuild is in order under new owners the Friedkin Group and in David Moyes’ second spell in charge.
Delap has a £30m release clause and has been attracting interest from half of the Premier League clubs. What Everton can offer him is the opportunity to be the franchise player for the Toffees as they look to begin a new era at the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. David Moyes is also an admirer of the player.
With Ipswich Town already relegated, a move looks certain for the 22-year-old Manchester City youth graduate.
Everton are yet to extend Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract and are unlikely to trigger the buy option on Armando Broja, on loan from Chelsea. Meanwhile, Beto, who had begun to find some form under Moyes, has blown largely hot and cold.
As such, the young Delap could be the perfect addition to the side where he will not only get minutes for development but will also be a major protagonist as Everton look to avoid relegation battles going forward.
However, given his well-documented release clause as well as the strong interest from other clubs, the management is set to face an uphill battle to secure his services.