Friedkins Ready to Move Fast for Liam Delap Transfer as Everton Face Newcastle Competition
As the summer transfer window approaches, Everton’s new ownership under Dan Friedkin and The Friedkin Group (TFG) appears eager to make a bold statement. One of their first key moves could be a quick-fire attempt to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap—a highly-rated young forward who has impressed during the 2024–25 Premier League season.
Delap, 22, is seen as a major target for the Toffees, particularly in light of the club’s uncertain striker situation. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract at Goodison Park is set to expire, and Armando Broja has returned to Chelsea following the conclusion of his loan spell. With Beto struggling to make a consistent impact since his arrival, there is growing pressure on the club to bring in a reliable attacking option who can spearhead David Moyes’ frontline.
Everton’s New Era Needs a Leading Man
With Everton preparing to move into their new home at the Hill Dickinson Stadium next season, the club’s hierarchy—spearheaded by TFG—wants to usher in a fresh chapter built around emerging talent. Liam Delap fits the bill perfectly: young, Premier League-proven, and brimming with potential.
Delap enjoyed an impressive campaign with newly promoted Ipswich Town, racking up 12 goals and two assists across 37 top-flight appearances. His blend of physicality, movement, and technical ability has attracted admirers across the league, including from Everton’s Premier League rivals Newcastle United.
Newcastle Enter the Race
According to a report from TEAMtalk (26 May), Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has taken a hands-on approach in trying to lure Delap to St James’ Park. The Magpies are believed to have held direct talks with the striker, hoping to tempt him with the offer of Champions League football next season.
That pitch may appeal to Delap, who is undoubtedly ambitious. However, there are potential concerns about his role at Newcastle. The club already boasts a top-tier centre-forward in Alexander Isak, whose form over the past two seasons has made him a central figure in their attack. Delap, therefore, could face an uphill battle for regular game time on Tyneside.
In contrast, Everton can offer him something Newcastle cannot—an immediate and prominent role in a rebuilding project.
A Fast-Track to First-Team Football at Everton
While European football is not currently on offer at Goodison Park, what Moyes and TFG can provide is a team that revolves around Delap. With Calvert-Lewin’s future uncertain and Beto struggling for form, there is a clear pathway for the young Englishman to become the focal point of the attack.
Delap’s potential arrival would align perfectly with Moyes’ tactical style. The veteran Scottish manager, who is fresh off a successful spell at West Ham that included winning the UEFA Europa Conference League, values strong centre-forwards capable of leading the line. Delap’s all-around game and work rate make him a natural fit.
If backed properly, Moyes could use Delap as the cornerstone of a new-look Everton side—one built to climb back into the top half of the Premier League and potentially challenge for domestic cups.
The Friedkins Must Act Quickly
TFG’s ambition to transform Everton both on and off the pitch could hinge on their ability to land players like Delap ahead of the competition. With Newcastle already making moves, the clock is ticking.
Delap’s profile and age make him a valuable asset not just for the present, but also for the future. He represents the kind of signing that could deliver long-term returns, both in terms of performance and potential resale value. Sealing the deal early would not only give Everton a head start in preseason preparations but also send a message to fans and rivals alike that the Friedkins mean business.
A Symbol of a New Era
Signing Delap would be about more than just strengthening the squad—it would be symbolic. As Everton prepare to leave Goodison Park and step into a new stadium, the club is also attempting to leave behind years of underachievement and instability. A high-profile acquisition like Delap would be the first big step in that journey.
Moreover, the striker himself may view Everton as the ideal next step in his career. At 22, he still has areas of his game to refine before he’s ready for Champions League football on a weekly basis. A stint under Moyes, playing regular Premier League minutes, could be exactly what he needs to take that next leap.
Conclusion
Everton are at a pivotal moment in their history, and The Friedkin Group appears keen to seize the opportunity to start their tenure on a high note. With competition from Newcastle United intensifying, swift action is needed to secure Liam Delap’s signature.
If Moyes and TFG can convince the Ipswich Town striker that he’s central to their project, Everton could very well land a future star—and one who could help define the new era at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The race is on. Will the Toffees be able to move quickly enough?