With Ipswich Town currently operating under a “one-in, one-out” policy for the January transfer window, Stuart Watson has identified several players who could leave Portman Road to facilitate new signings.
Here is a breakdown of the candidates for departure:
The Defensive Outcasts
- Ben Johnson: Despite being considered a major “coup” when he arrived from West Ham, Johnson has failed to secure a regular spot. Manager Kieran McKenna has seemingly lost trust in him as a right-back, often preferring other options or playing him out of position. With two-and-a-half years left on his contract, his high wages may make him difficult to move.
- Harry Clarke: The local favorite has fallen down the pecking order following injuries and a difficult run of form in the Premier League. After a loan spell at Sheffield United, he has been relegated to the Under-21s. A loan exit seems likely before his contract situation is reassessed in the summer.
- Elkan Baggott: The Indonesian international is a rare left-footed center-back but has spent most of his time on loan. After being kept as emergency cover last summer, he needs regular football. Another League One loan is recommended to determine his long-term future.
Midfield and Wing Options
- Cameron Humphreys: At 22, Humphreys is considered highly mature but has spent too much time on the sidelines. Blocked by senior midfielders like Jens Cajuste and Jack Taylor, he requires a strategic loan move to a top League One or mid-table Championship side to continue his development.
- Wes Burns: Although a hero of back-to-back promotions, Burns faces stiff competition from big-money signings like Sindre Walle Egeli and Kasey McAteer. With his contract expiring this summer, the club may allow him to leave early to find regular minutes elsewhere.
High-Profile Attackers
- Sammie Szmodics: The £9m signing has struggled to replicate his prolific Blackburn form, failing to score this season while dealing with recurring injuries. With Marcelino Nunez taking his spot in the “No. 10” role, Ipswich might look to recoup some of their investment, with Derby County mentioned as a potential destination.
- Jaden Philogene: After an inconsistent start, Philogene has become Ipswich’s most dangerous attacker, sparking interest from Bournemouth. While a massive “silly money” offer might tempt the club to sell and rely on Jack Clarke, a mid-season exit for the 23-year-old remains unlikely unless the valuation is met.
The Loan Dilemma
- Chuba Akpom & Ivan Azon: Both loanees have had modest returns, scoring twice each. McKenna could consider cutting their loans short to free up matchday loan slots (the club is currently using four of their five allowed spots). Terminating these deals would also prevent the club from being forced into “obligation to buy” clauses, though it would mean losing players who are already integrated into the squad.
