Ipswich Town have now opened talks to sign an “outstanding” defender and a “super” midfielder, as they gear up for a Premier League promotion charge, according to a report.
Ipswich looking to strengthen in all areas
Ipswich ultimately finished 16 points adrift of safety last season, highlighting the gap between the Premier League and the Championship, but Kieran McKenna has made it clear that he has aspirations of returning to the top flight at the first attempt.
McKenna said: “I’m confident. That’s the truth. But we know how relentless that division is as well. Every year there are upsets – teams who do better than expected, teams who do worse than expected. It’s a 46-game season where everyone competes hard every week. It’s one of the most competitive divisions in Europe.”
The additions McKenna has already made to his squad should give fans cause for optimism, having strengthened both the midfield and the defence, although a replacement for Liam Delap may also be needed before the transfer window slams shut.
Despite already making improvements to the engine room and the backline, the Tractor Boys have now opened talks over potential deals for two new signings in those areas of the pitch.
That is according to a report from EFL Analysis, which states Ipswich have now made enquiries about Hayden Hackney and Dael Fry, both of whom currently play for fellow Championship side Middlesbrough.
Currently, the Championship promotion-hopefuls are yet to submit formal bids for either player, however, and it may be difficult to win the race for Hackney, who is valued at £20m, amid interest from the Premier League.
Boro are also hesitant to sanction Fry’s departure this summer, although they could be tempted to cash-in, should the Tractor Boys be willing to submit a suitable offer.
Fry and Hackney could be exciting signings for Ipswich
Both Middlesbrough players are experienced at Championship level, with Dean Ashton lauding Fry as “outstanding” in the past, while there are plenty of signs that Hackney could be capable of making the step-up to the Premier League.
Chris Wilder singled the 23-year-old out for high praise last season, saying: “We were playing against two very good central midfielders. I’ve watched Hayden Hackney from afar, seeing his career flourish.
“There’s no better teacher for him than Michael, and he’ll enjoy the way Middlesbrough play. He’s a super player, and Morris is a good player in there too.”
The Middlesbrough star is a forward-thinking midfielder, despite often featuring in a defensive role, placing in the 99th percentile for progressive passes per 90 over the past year, and the 97th percentile for progressive carries.
Fry and Hackney could be fantastic additions to McKenna’s squad, but signing a new striker should be the manager’s priority following Delap’s departure.
