MANCHESTER City have reportedly rejected a massive offer worth up to £30million from Southampton for young striker Liam Delap.
The 19-year-old England youth international has been a target of Saints throughout the summer transfer window, as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
Part of the Young Lions team that won the Under-19 European Championships this month, Delap – son of Rory – faces striking competition from new signing Erling Haaland at City.
Adding to that, 22-year-old Argentine sensation Julian Alvarez has arrived in Manchester from River Plate and also stands in the way of his already limited first-team opportunity.
Delap has made six appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side since earning a debut in 2020, but has reportedly had a big show of faith from the legendary boss.
The Daily Star detail that City have rejected a transfer bid from Saints of £20million up front with a further £10million in add-ons – a package that would be a St Mary’s record.
They add it was rejected after a veto directly from Guardiola himself, who sees the youngster in his eventual plans despite the competition ahead of him.
Saints have already raided the City academy for two of their most promising youngsters with permanent deals for goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu and midfielder Romeo Lavia.
The pair have both impressed for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side in pre-season, including most recently in a 0-0 draw against Championship side Watford.
The Austrian boss has been insistent on signing more attackers, saying they “will definitely bring more” even after Sekou Mara’s arrival is confirmed.
🚨 With the Premier League under way in under two weeks, #SaintsFC need forwards.
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) July 24, 2022
Sekou Mara's one, but Ralph insists they'll "definitely bring more".
➕ Labelled Mara a "surprising opportunity. A little bit like Broja but this time he's our player and not only loan."
Delap, who scores for fun and has outgrown Premier League 2 level, and is out in USA with the first-team for pre-season, looks more likely to leave the Etihad Stadium on loan for the upcoming campaign.
Burnley, managed by City legend Vincent Kompany, has been touted as a possible destination for the Winchester-born forward.
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