Ipswich are making a big statement already in the transfer window as they prepare for their Premier League return following a 22 year wait.
Ipswich managed to hold onto manager Kieran McKenna despite interest from various Premier League sides including Brighton, Manchester United and Chelsea. They’ve also made some signings that show they’ll put up a good fight in the top flight unlike some promoted sides over the years.
Last season, Sheffield United sold their best player in Iliman N’Diaye and never got going without him, but Ipswich are taking the opposite approach, securing the signatures of some big names.
Embed from Getty ImagesSo far, Ipswich have permanently signed Omari Hutchinson, who had an impressive loan spell at the club last season. They’ve also announced the signing of West Ham’s Ben Johnson on a free deal.
McKenna’s side won’t stop there though, the 38-year-old manager has a six-man target list that he’d like to tick off before their opening game against Liverpool.
According to a leaked document, McKenna and his scouts are looking for six new players on top of the confirmed pair Hutchinson and Johnson.
In the heart of defence, Ipswich are looking for an intelligent centre back who is both “composed and technically good”. They must also have various athletic qualities such as good acceleration and agility.
McKenna is also interested in signing a new left back, which suggests he’s preparing for Leif Davis’ exit. Ipswich are looking for a player very similar to Davis: “Physically good (acceleration, agility, top speed and speed endurance). Able to run with the ball at good speed. Plays forward passes. Good delivery into the penalty area, including set-pieces. Defend 1 v 1 and back post.”
Embed from Getty ImagesIn the middle of the park, Ipswich are in the market for a box-to-box midfielder who is “physically strong and a good size”. They are also looking for a number ten who is “technically above the level and capable of pressing with intensity”.
Out wide a right winger is on McKenna’s wishlist, he wants a player who is “very good at passing in tight areas, running with the ball and contributes with goals and assists”.
Leading the line for Ipswich will be a “physically good centre forward who has the ability to link lay and offer a threat in behind”. Similar to the number ten, the player must be “capable of pressing with intensity”.
The list doesn’t include a goalkeeper however the Tractor Boys are linked with both Brighton’s Carl Rushworth and Luton’s Thomas Kaminski.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Newnham
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