Newcastle United hold 'very positive' talks with £30m striker and look to beat Manchester United to signing

There are few things sweeter as a Newcastle United fan who grew up in the 90's than seeing the Magpies get one over on Manchester United on the pitch.

Getting one over on them off the pitch makes for a pretty good feeling too, and beating them to any potential signings, especially these days, will be a nice little reminder of where the two clubs are in their respective journeys right now.

Newcastle and Manchester United are both looking at a few similar names ahead of the summer transfer window, one of which is Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.

Man United were originally thought to be a good bet for Delap's next club despite coming through the academy at Manchester City, but TeamTalk are reporting that Newcastle are the new leaders in the race.

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Eddie Howe has spoken to Liam Delap personally

Liam Delap has a £30 million release clause that will be activated if, actually let's be honest, when, Ipswich are relegated, and there's expected to be more than just Newcastle and Man United looking to take advantage.

However, TeamTalk are reporting now that Newcastle have held 'very positive' talks with Liam Delap's people over a summer move, even saying that Eddie Howe has spoken to Delap personally.

The 22-year-old has a big decision to make this summer, but after speaking to Eddie Howe, you'd have to expect that Newcastle are in the driving seat now.

Liam Delap will get a taste of the St James' Park magic on Saturday

Not only would Delap move to a club on the up, with one of the best projects in football right now, but he'd get to learn from arguably the best striker in the world right now.

Let's not forget the Eddie Howe midas touch too with the Newcastle gaffer able to turn average players into top quality ones.

It's really too early to say who is leading the race for Delap, but the son of former Sunderland player Rory Delap will be at St James' Park on Saturday, and if he experiences that atmosphere while thinking of his future, then we have to fancy our chances.