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Newcastle United have intensified their pursuit of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap as they prepare for a potentially transformative summer window.

The 21-year-old marksman has emerged as one of the Premier League’s breakout talents this season, netting 12 goals for newly-promoted Ipswich and earning plaudits for his relentless work rate and clinical finishing.

With Ipswich facing near-certain relegation – requiring a mathematical miracle to survive – Newcastle’s recruitment team has identified Delap as a prime target.

The Magpies’ long-standing interest dates back to his Manchester City academy days, where he developed the technical foundation now flourishing in senior football.

Eddie Howe will have a first-hand opportunity to assess the young striker this weekend when Newcastle host Ipswich at St James’ Park.

Delap represents a strategic addition for Newcastle regardless of Alexander Isak’s future. While the Swedish talisman has cemented himself as one of Europe’s elite forwards with 21 goals this campaign, including the League Cup final winner, persistent links to Arsenal have forced Newcastle to consider contingency plans.

Delap could either serve as Isak’s understudy or potentially step into a leading role should the club sanction a blockbuster sale.

The move aligns with Newcastle’s dual objectives – building squad depth for their Europa League campaign while securing promising English talent.

Delap’s physicality, pressing intensity and eye for goal make him an ideal fit for Howe’s system, offering both immediate impact and long-term upside.

As Ipswich brace for relegation, Newcastle are positioning themselves at the front of the queue for one of the Premier League’s most exciting young forwards.