Ex Man City Striker, currently playing for Ipswich. Has had a very solid first season in the Premier League (currently 12 PL goals) and has a circa £30m release clause. Looks certain to leave Ipswich in the summer following their relegation from the PL.
I’ve been slightly inspired by @GC-Maniac (not for the first time) to have a closer look at Delap, initially due to his release clause, but secondly following a chat with a colleague who is an Ipswich Season Ticket holder and rates Delap highly. Interestingly, he said after the Ipswich vs Arsenal match at full time, while the other Ipswich players were thanking the fans, Delap was in the centre circle having a lengthy conversation with Nicolas Jover.
Seems certain to move to another PL Club in the summer. Is he good enough for Arsenal? I’m not sure, BUT after looking at him more closely, probably should be considered as a credible option.
If we’re going for Delap as a squad option, how much are we going to spend this window?
Ipswich are going to want more than 50m for their best player, so with Delap, as well as a striker, LW, Zubimendi and GK as a bare minimum in the next window, we’re looking at 250m at least.
It would be great business if we could get him for that, although there are several other clubs interested which might push the price up.
But perhaps if Trossared and Jesus leave, it would make sense to get a very good, young, PL experienced player like Delap to replace them as cover for a top quality striker.
His finishing certainly needs work but I like a lot about him. Proper nuisance to defences. Great ball carrier, good hold-up, he is not afraid to get dirty and get physical with opponents.
In a way, he would be replacing what Jesus brought us.
