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Southampton interested in Manchester City starlet Liam Delap - report
Southampton are reportedly interested in a permanent move for Man City starlet Liam Delap, according to Guardian journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The club is actively looking for a replacement for Armando Broja, who returned to his parent club Chelsea after a season-long loan last term and it is also looking increasingly likely he will not be returning to St Mary’s this summer.
It has been revealed by Romano on Twitter on 13 July that Southampton are pondering a permanent move for Delap, while Burnley are interested in a loan move for the striker.
Romano said: “Manchester City are prepared to let Liam Delap leave in the next few weeks.
“I have been told that Burnley have asked for Delap on loan until end of the season, while Southampton are also interested but for a permanent move.
“Man City’s final decision is to be made in the next few days.”
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Permanent move for Delap?
This rumour comes at a strange time as the striker signed a new four-year deal just last summer, keeping him at the club until 2026, and seemingly being close to breaking into Pep Guardiola’s first team plans.
However, with the signings of Erlian Haaland and Julian Alvarez, Delap’s pathway to the first-team now looks much more difficult, with a move most likely his best bet to get game time in senior football.
Standing at six foot one, the striker has impressive link-up play and upper body strength while also possessing a turn of pace to beat defenders.
He is also a clinical finisher, with goals ranging from poacher goals in the box and long-range piledrivers or precise curlers from outside the penalty area.
The 19-year-old is an exciting prospect who scored 47 goals at youth level last season across various competitions , while also making two Premier League appearances and an appearance in the Champions League.
If he can continue his development at St Mary’s and have a similar impact to Broja, he will be an undoubted success at the Saints.
In other Southampton news, the Saints have confirmed a deal for Man City midfielder, Romeo Lavia.