Ipswich Town is well aware that staying in the Premier League will require an immense effort from everyone at Portman Road, following their remarkable promotion last season. The Tractor Boys were not expected to compete with clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, but they achieved the incredible feat of securing back-to-back promotions after spending considerable time in League One.
Now, Kieran McKenna and his team face the challenge of recruiting new players to bolster Ipswich’s chances of survival in the top flight. This could soon include the arrival of a strong Championship center-back.
Ipswich wanting to sign free agent star
According to a report from the Express and Star, West Bromwich Albion have reluctantly accepted that Cedric Kipre, their star center-back, will depart the Hawthorns this summer as a free agent after failing to reach an agreement on a new contract with the Baggies.
While this news is disappointing for fans connected to Carlos Corberan’s team, it presents an opportunity for clubs like Ipswich Town, who have shown keen interest in recruiting the former Wigan Athletic player. By strengthening their defense with Kipre’s arrival, Ipswich aims to address their vulnerability, having conceded 57 goals in the Championship last season. Despite their attacking prowess, which often bewildered opponents with a plethora of forward players, Ipswich recognizes the pressing need to solidify their back line for Premier League competition.
Previously considering Joe Rodon and Cameron Carter-Vickers for the same center-back position as Kipre, Ipswich’s priorities are evident in their offseason recruitment strategy. Poaching talent from West Brom, akin to their successful loan acquisition of Jeremy Sarmiento, demonstrates Ipswich’s ability to secure impactful signings.
Kipre, who has earned praise as a “fantastic” defender in the Championship according to football journalist Josh Bunting, seeks to prove himself in the higher division following an impressive season with West Brom. His potential move to Ipswich offers him the chance to contribute significantly to their campaign, potentially aiding in another improbable bid for Premier League survival.
Should Ipswich defy expectations and secure their place in the top flight, signing Kipre would undoubtedly be viewed as a savvy move, given his acquisition on a free transfer and potential heroics on the pitch.
