Manchester United have taken the first steps towards signing a 29-year-old title-winning striker who much prefers a move to the Premier League than Saudi Arabia, and how much a deal will cost has been revealed.
United being in the market for a brand new striker is no secret, with their crippling lack of goals a clear issue that must be addressed. In fact, Ruben Amorim is reportedly of the opinion United’s striker situation is the biggest problem he’s inherited.
Joshua Zirkzee favours playing in one of the two spots behind the striker. That’s put the spotlight on Rasmus Hojlund who unfortunately, has wilted in his second season.
The Dane is a concrete candidate to leave the club in the summer. Per Fabrizio Romano, high-ranking Serie A clubs have already put calls into Man Utd.
The signing of a new striker is inevitable even if Hojlund secures a stay of execution. After exploring moves for the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Victor Osimhen, it’s actually Liam Delap of Ipswich Town who now sits atop Man Utd’s shortlist.
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But according to a fresh update from Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger, (as per TEAMtalk) a more experienced frontman at Bayer Leverkusen cannot be discounted.
Taking to X, Berger revealed: “Manchester United are monitoring the situation of Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick.
“Man Utd are in the market for a No.9 and prefer a younger profile – but Schick is also considered interesting.
“Initial contact was made, but nothing concrete so far. One of many names on the list.”
Berger then shed light on how big of a bid is required to seal a deal. The reporter also revealed Schick has his eyes on a move to the Premier League despite the riches on offer in Saudi Arabia.
“Leverkusen would demand €25m-€30m (£21.4m-£25.7m) for Schick who is under contract until 2027,” continued Berger.
“The Premier League is Schick’s preferred destination. Despite interest from Saudi clubs, a move to the Middle East is currently not an option.”
As mentioned, Delap is currently Man Utd’s preferred option and at 22, would represent a much longer-term option. Aged 29, Schick would very much be a short-term solution.
Delap’s deal at Portman Road contains a release clause worth £40m. In the event of relegation, the clause drops in value to £30m.
Ipswich trail 17th-placed West Ham by 14 points with just six matches remaining. Relegation looks assured for Kieran McKenna’s side.
