Delap Linked With Move To Fulham

Liam Delap has been tipped for a move to Fulham if Kieran McKenna takes over at Craven Cottage.

The Ipswich Town boss is interested in replacing Marco Silva in the dugout, according to talkSPORT.

Silva has left the Cottagers after five years in charge to become Benfica manager.

McKenna is currently seen as Fulham’s No.1 target to succeed him, but has an £8million release clause in his Ipswich deal.

talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent Alex Crook provided an update on their pursuit on Friday’s Breakfast show.

Joining Shebahn Aherne and Carlton Cole, he explained: “I think Kieran McKenna is their preferred choice, but not a cheap deal to do.

“He’s got an £8million release clause in his contract, but it’s interesting because if Fulham signed a striker for £8million, it wouldn’t be seen as a lot of money, but clubs they’re always reluctant to pay for managers.

“You think how important the managerial role is these days, that baffles me a little bit.”

He continued: “It’s a step up for him. It’s going to be another battle to keep Ipswich in the Premier League.

“You kind of see Fulham now as this established Premier League team.”

Also Read: Delap: I’m Ready To Fight For My Shirt At Chelsea

McKenna is fresh from guiding Ipswich back into the Premier League at the first attempt after finishing second in the Championship.

It represents his third promotion in four full seasons as manager at Portman Road.

If appointed as Fulham’s new manager, signing a striker could be amongst his priorities this summer, and Cole had the perfect name in mind.

He asked if this could see Delap move to Fulham, and Crook responded: “Very good question. Well, obviously Raul Jimenez has left.

“He’s in talks with Wolves, by the way a lot of their fans would welcome that return, so yes it [Delap to Fulham] could be a good shout.”

Admitting he was just being speculative, Cole added: “I think it’s a good shout. I’m just thinking outside the box!”

Jimenez will depart the club as a free agent upon the expiry of his contract at the end of this month.