“Personally I don’t think Delap should go to Man Utd because…”- Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher believes that Liam Delap should avoid a summer transfer to Man United
Ipswich Town: Jamie Carragher on Man United’s interest in Liam Delap
Jamie Carragher Urges Liam Delap to Snub Manchester United Move This Summer
Liverpool legend and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has offered some career advice to Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, cautioning him against a summer switch to Manchester United. The 22-year-old forward, who enjoyed a breakout season with the Tractor Boys, has attracted widespread interest following a strong individual campaign in the Premier League.
Delap, who managed to score 12 goals and register two assists in the 2024/25 season, is widely expected to depart Portman Road in the coming weeks, with Ipswich’s relegation triggering a release clause in his contract valued at £30 million. This clause has drawn attention from several Premier League giants, with Manchester United currently thought to be leading the race for his signature.
Chelsea and Newcastle United have also shown interest, with reports from The Athletic indicating that Delap recently met with Chelsea executives in Manchester to discuss a potential move.
However, Jamie Carragher believes that jumping straight into a high-pressure environment like Old Trafford could be premature for the young striker. Speaking during a segment on Sky Sports, Carragher explained why he feels Delap should prioritize consistent game time and a stable environment over the prestige of a top club.
“I don’t think Delap should go to Manchester United,” Carragher stated bluntly. “We’ve seen situations like this before. Take Rasmus Hojlund, for example. When you’re stepping up from a club that has been relegated to one of the biggest clubs in the world, even if they’re struggling in the table, it’s a massive leap — not just in quality, but in pressure, expectation, and scrutiny.”
Carragher emphasized that while Manchester United may currently sit in a disappointing 16th place in the Premier League, the club’s global stature and media spotlight make it an entirely different environment compared to mid- or lower-table teams.
“Man United are still a monster in terms of profile and fanbase,” he added. “Every move is under the microscope. It’s not just about playing football — it’s about handling the spotlight. That’s a lot to ask of a young striker who is just beginning to find his rhythm in the top flight.”
Although the former England defender acknowledged Delap’s talent, and even suggested he could be an upgrade on United’s current first-choice striker Rasmus Hojlund, he believes the smarter career move would be to join a mid-table team where Delap can continue to grow without being immediately thrust into the limelight.
“I do think he’s better than Hojlund in some ways, especially in terms of how he brings others into play,” Carragher admitted. “But that’s not the point. The next step in his career should be to join a club like Everton — somewhere he can play every week, be the main man, and really establish himself in the Premier League.”
Carragher pointed out that Delap currently serves as the focal point of Ipswich Town’s attack, and that moving to a similar role at another club would allow him to maintain his momentum while continuing his development.
“At Ipswich, he’s the best player in the team. Everything goes through him. That builds confidence, rhythm, and identity. If he joins a team where he’s expected to play every game, lead the line, and carry that same responsibility, he’ll be ready in a couple of years for a bigger move — maybe even Manchester United, or another club playing in the Champions League.”
Carragher’s comments echo a broader concern in English football about young talents being rushed into major clubs too early, only to struggle with limited game time and the burden of expectation. For Delap, who previously came through the ranks at Manchester City, a more gradual path to the top could help him unlock his full potential.
As the transfer window heats up, Delap faces a pivotal decision — whether to chase the bright lights of Old Trafford now, or take a measured step that might ultimately serve his long-term career better.
