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Manchester United earmark Bundesliga star as Liam Delap alternative

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohan Sengupta | Last updated May 2, 2025 2:49 AM ET

Manchester United set to hold discussions with Bayer Leverkusen over the signing of Patrik Schick

Manchester United are set to make some radical changes to their squad after heading towards their worst-ever Premier League campaign.

INEOS are targeting a new No.9 to bolster their attacking unit, having seen young strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee fail to supply goals consistently. Both Hojlund and Zirkzee have combined for only seven Premier League goals, which is quite an underwhelming number from the club’s point of view.

Perhaps, there is an internal acceptance that upgrades in that department are needed ahead of the summer transfer window. With Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony all expected to leave the club permanently following their loan spells away from Old Trafford, INEOS are hoping to spend the money raised by bringing in players who fit Ruben Amorim’s distinctive 3-4-2-1 system.

They have identified Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap as one of the chief targets to bolster their front line. Despite Ipswich Town’s misery this season, he has been a standout performer, recording 12 goals and two assists across 33 Premier League appearances.

Following the Tractor Boys’ relegation, the England international now has a £30m release clause and has been attracting interest from half of the Premier League clubs. As United are facing an uphill battle to sign Delap, they have identified an alternative target.

According to an exclusive report from GIVEMESPORT, the Red Devils will turn their focus towards recruiting Bayer Leverkusen marksman Patrik Schick if they fail in their pursuit of Delap. There is a possibility that talks will be held with Bayer Leverkusen over the signing of the experienced No.9.

The Czech Republic international has done quite well in the Bundesliga. He has been in great goalscoring form this season, netting 19 times in 28 Bundesliga outings. The lanky centre-forward has 79 goals and 12 goals in 165 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen, averaging a goal every 78 minutes.

This is a fantastic record for Patrik Schick, displaying his clinical nature in front of goal. Having thrived in Xabi Alonso’s 3-4-3/3-5-2 system at Bay Arena, one would expect the experienced striker to do well under Amorim if he joins United. Also, he is valued at just £34 million, which should be attainable for the Red Devils.

At 29, the Czechia star is at the peak of his powers and would be a good option to not only lead United’s attack but also mentor young strikers such as Hojlund and Zirkzee. That said, INEOS must go all out to recruit Schick this summer.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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