David Ornstein confirms Manchester United ‘aren’t pursuing’ striker | OneFootball

Man Utd Shift Focus as Osimhen Links Dismissed in Favour of Delap Move

Man Utd Reset Transfer Plans Ahead of Vital Summer

Manchester United’s summer rebuild appears set for a pragmatic shift, with trusted journalist David Ornstein confirming that reported links to Victor Osimhen are wide of the mark. Instead, the Red Devils are firmly targeting a more attainable, younger option in Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.

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Ruben Amorim, United’s new head coach, has made no secret internally that a potent striker is paramount to transforming a limp attack. While additions like Matheus Cunha from Wolves are progressing positively—with Goal Brazil even reporting an agreement on personal terms—the figurehead up front remains critical.

Despite speculative claims from Turkish and African outlets that a deal for Osimhen had been struck, Ornstein stated firmly on NBC Sports: “If Manchester United are to look at others, I’m assured it will not be Victor Osimhen. Despite reports you might be reading, he is not on the agenda for Manchester United.”

Liam Delap Identified as Primary Target

According to FootballTransfers, Delap, who has a £30 million release clause if Ipswich Town are relegated, is United’s number one target. David Ornstein elaborated: “In the striker department, it is Liam Delap of Ipswich Town that is their No 1 target.”

Competition is fierce. Chelsea are closely monitoring the situation, and Newcastle United have entered the race, with Eddie Howe reportedly holding direct conversations with Delap and his representatives.

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However, United believe they have an advantage: the ability to offer Delap immediate first-team football. Unlike Newcastle, where Delap would likely sit behind Alexander Isak unless Howe alters his system, Amorim reportedly views Delap as the natural successor to a departing Rasmus Højlund.

Squad Planning Underway Beyond Delap

It is understood that United are exploring other areas too. Should the Delap move materialise swiftly—ideally before the European Under-21 Championship, according to reports—the club could then reallocate resources towards reinforcing midfield and defensive positions.

With Amorim keen to impose a fresh tactical identity at Old Trafford, internal options such as Højlund remain under review, though the 21-year-old’s future appears increasingly uncertain after a difficult second season.

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For now, United’s striker conundrum looks likely to be solved not by a marquee name like Osimhen, but by a calculated, cost-effective move for one of England’s emerging talents.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For many Manchester United fans, the news will be a bitter pill to swallow. After another underwhelming season, the dream was of a blockbuster signing like Victor Osimhen—a ready-made superstar to reignite belief. Instead, the club appear to be gambling on potential again.

Liam Delap may well have the qualities to thrive in the Premier League, but it is still a significant risk for a club that needs instant impact, not more long-term projects. With Newcastle and Chelsea circling too, even landing Delap is no foregone conclusion.

There is a growing feeling among fans that this is yet another example of United’s leadership prioritising budget over ambition. £30 million for Delap makes business sense—but does it make footballing sense when the club is desperate to close the gap on Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal?

Unless Amorim delivers a clearly structured plan to integrate new players quickly and decisively, scepticism will grow. After all, supporters have heard similar promises before, only to see United remain adrift of the Premier League’s elite.

In short: it’s not the dream many were sold—and the road back to the top looks no shorter today than it did yesterday.