Manchester United’s chances of securing the signature of Liam Delap this summer have surely been thrown into jeopardy following their Europa League final defeat to Tottenham on Wednesday night. The message has been loud and clear throughout the transfer saga so far – the 22-year-old wants to play European football next season.

However, with United losing 1-0 and thus missing out on the fast pass into the competition, other clubs may now come into the equation and could look to prise Delap elsewhere despite the Red Devils being confident about acquiring his services. Express Sport takes a look at the other sides in the running…

Chelsea

Chelsea have made it no secret that they want to sign a new No. 9 this summer, and Delap is very high on their transfer shortlist – with Joe Shields overseeing his development at Manchester City before the Ipswich switch. The Blues are set to be playing European football of some description next season, and the forward could quickly become Enzo Maresca’s first-choice forward ahead of Nicolas Jackson too.

Newcastle

With reports claiming that the Magpies have held face-to-face talks over Delap, they certainly remain in the picture. Whether the forward is keen to head to St James’ Park may hinge on if Alexander Isak departs though given that the forward is undroppable when fully fit.

Everton

Although there is no European football on offer, Delap could give consideration to Everton’s interest in signing him. The forward would spearhead their revival project at a new stadium and play for fans buoyed by a fresh sense of belief since David Moyes’ arrival.

Arsenal

Viktor Gyokeres, Isak and Benjamin Sesko are among the top striker targets at the Emirates Stadium. But with Delap available for £30million, Mikel Arteta may consider the Englishman as a worthy candidate to lead the line for his side – or at least be a rotational option in the final third.

Nottingham Forest

Forest threw their hat into the ring to sign Delap previously, and Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are reportedly still keen admirers of the striker. With European fixtures to navigate next season and Chris Wood not getting any younger, the England Under-21 international would receive plenty of chances to develop further – though it may not be the ‘Big Six’ move that he is looking for.