£30m Premier League star warned against joining Manchester United

Speaking on talkSPORT via Youtube, Agbonlahor believes that the Hammers need to strengthen their forward line and that the situation of Evan Ferguson, who will return to Brighton, will leave space available for a striker like Delap. Gabriel also believes that staying at Ipswich would not add to his development, especially after a relegation that has left the team in a shaky position. Delap, who has scored 12 goals in this Premier League campaign, has options, but Agbonlahor advises him to think carefully before making a decision that could define his long-term career.

“If I was him, I wouldn’t be going there. I wouldn’t stay at Ipswich, I’d go to West Ham, go and prove yourself at West Ham, the next step. They need a striker, Evan Ferguson will go back to Brighton, it hasn’t worked out.”

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From Manchester United‘s perspective, signing Liam Delap would make sense. The club still need a young striker who can grow with the new project. Rasmus Højlund was brought into the team with a lot of hype, but he can’t carry all the offensive weight. Delap, who has a background in demanding academies such as Manchester City, can offer power, work off the ball and presence in the box. In a team looking for transition and dynamism, he can fit in without needing to be a starter from day one. In addition, the Red Devils do not have a recent history of successful signings up front, so trying out young English talent could prove beneficial.

For Delap, coming to United would mean returning to an elite environment, with resources, international visibility and the chance to play in European competitions. Although competition will be high, training at the highest level every day can accelerate his development. At 22 years of age, he needs a leap that will allow him to grow without stagnating. West Ham would be an interesting destination, but limited in sporting ambitions. On the other hand, if he is armed with patience and accepts the challenge, he could become a key player at Old Trafford in the medium term. In short, United need goals and youth; Delap needs drive and demand. So, coming together could be the best answer for both.