Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has confirmed that defender Harry Clarke is currently in negotiations to leave the club on loan this January.
As the Tractor Boys look to fine-tune their squad for a Premier League promotion push, several fringe players are being moved on to secure regular playing time. Clarke, an academy graduate who was pivotal in the club’s rise from League One, has found himself sidelined this season, failing to make a single matchday squad.
Key Details of the Potential Move
- The Situation: McKenna told the East Anglian Daily Times that talks are underway with an unnamed club, and a deal could be finalized shortly.
- Squad Hierarchy: Clarke has fallen down the pecking order behind Darnell Furlong, Ashley Young, and Ben Johnson.
- Contract Stakes: With his current contract set to expire at the end of this season, this loan spell serves as a critical “shop window” for Clarke to earn either a permanent move or a contract elsewhere.
Wider Squad Reshuffle
Clarke isn’t the only player heading for the exit. His departure follows Cameron Humphreys (Huddersfield Town) and likely Elkan Baggott, as Ipswich looks to trim the wage bill and create space for new arrivals.
| Player | Status | Potential Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Clarke | In Talks | Unnamed Club (Loan) |
| Cameron Humphreys | Departed | Huddersfield Town (Loan) |
| Elkan Baggott | Expected | Loan Exit |
| Sammie Szmodics | Uncertain | Transfer rumors circulating |
Strengthening for Promotion
By moving on players who aren’t seeing minutes, McKenna aims to clear the path for “shrewd tweaks” to the roster. While the manager has been cautious about specific targets, the club is reportedly considering reinforcements in:
- Central Midfield: For added depth and competition.
- Striker: To provide a potential upgrade for the final promotion charge.
