Latest developments
- Newcastle United are interested in Liam Delap.
- The Ipswich Town striker is being chased by nearly every top Premier League club.
- His wage demands could make the pursuit very difficult for Newcastle.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Newcastle's transfer plans hit a snag
Newcastle United are interested in signing Liam Delap but the Geordies would have to make Delap one of their highest-paid players if they are to have any chance of beating the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea to the Ipswich Town striker's signature.
The story comes Chronicle Live, who suggest Newcastle are unlikely to be in a position to meet Delap's demands.
Value (3/5): Reasonable fee, staggering wages
The 22-year-old Englishman is set to exit Portman Road with many clubs keen on triggering his affordable £30million release clause. However, his wage demands, believed to be between £120,000 to £150,000 per week, could force Newcastle to think long and hard before making a concrete approach.
Suitability (4/5): Perfect for Premier League football
The 6ft 1in forward has a massive frame and impeccable movement in and around the penalty area, making him a perfect number nine to deal with Premier League's physicality. His finishing is equally impressive, underlined by his 12 goals in England's top flight this season.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Partner for Isak
The Magpies are very unlikely to let Alexander Isak leave Tyneside this summer. As such, should Delap arrive, he is not going to be handed the role of a sole striker under Eddie Howe. The England U21 international would either cover for Isak or start alongside him.
Logic (2/5): No defined role
As mentioned above, Delap is not going to be a starter under Howe unless the manager makes major tactical tweaks with regards to his frontline. Further, the Ipswich man is too good to be Isak's cover. As such, it would be best for him to look for a different club to showcase his talents on a regular basis.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
Newcastle are not in a position to compete with PSR cash machines like Chelsea and they can't offer Delap a very attractive role in their project. This transfer saga is not going very far.
