Credit: Imago

Harri Burton

Wed 2 April 2025 11:00, UK

Rasmus Hojlund looks to have already run out of opportunities to prove himself to Ruben Amorim as Man United’s striker of the future.

The 22-year-old is currently in his second season at Old Trafford, having burst onto the scene with 16 goals and two assists during the 2023/24 campaign and quickly wowing the fans.

After signing him for £72million from Serie A side Atalanta [BBC Sport], expectations were high, and he certainly impressed, but the confident Dane that had supporters loved last season is no longer there.

In fact, Mick Brown told Football Insider that Man United are now ready to cash in on Hojlund if offers of £50m arrive at the doors of Old Trafford, which even at that reduced price could be a little ambitious.

However, if the Red Devils can limit their losses to just £22m on the young striker, this could open up doors for the club to do business for one of the most sought-after forwards in the division.

Man United to replace Rasmus Hojlund with Liam Delap

According to the Daily Mail [1 April], Ipswich Town’s potential relegation from the Premier League will trigger a £40m release clause in Liam Delap’s current contract, with Man United one of the teams interested.

United will likely face competition from Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle United if Kieran McKenna’s side cannot avoid the dreaded dropzone this season, and connections with Jason Wilcox could help seal the deal.

Of course, having played for Man City’s academy before leaving for Portman Road, the player might need persuading, but when the chance to play at the Theatre of Dreams presents itself, that is tough to turn down.

In addition to that, considering the striker’s performances so far this season and the type of player Amorim will be looking to purchase this summer, Delap would be the perfect fit.

How do the strikers from Man United and Ipswich Town compare?

It is simple to say that Delap is a far better goalscorer than Hojlund when looking at their records this season, with the Ipswich man boasting 10 goals in a relegation-threatened side while the other flounders on three.

Amorim, who is currently under pressure at Man United, will be giddy at the thought of working with the former Man City man, given his incredibly influential playstyle and ability with the ball at his feet.

Back at Sporting CP, Viktor Gyokeres was continuously doubled-up on by opposition defenders, meaning he was forced to spin and fight his way out of trouble, which Delap has been doing all season.

The Englishman has the ability to create chances out of nothing, and while Bruno Fernandes continues to supply balls on plates for his teammates, he is more often than not let down.

Amorim needs a striker who does not need to depend on those around him, and with Jack Clarke leading Ipswich’s assist list with four this season, Delap could not do anything more to prove himself the right candidate to lead the Red Devils forward.