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Third Summer Signing Close
Third Summer Signing Close
Tuesday, 8th Jul 2008 12:54

Boss Jim Magilton is reported to be close to taking his haul of summer recruits to three, according to a report this lunchtime. The identity of the third man is not yet known, the Blues having previously signed defenders Gareth McAuley and Pim Balkestein.

Former keeper Richard Wright's proposed move from West Ham has been expected for some weeks now and it could be that the ex-England keeper's return to Portman Road will finally be sealed.

German reports on Sunday linked Wolfsburg keeper Simon Jentzsch with Town, although Wright would still appear to be the favourite to become Neil Alexander's long-term successor. Southampton message board rumours have also linked Kelvin Davis with a return to Portman Road

The Blues have also been linked with numerous strikers in recent weeks most notably Nuremberg's Angelos Charisteas and Crewe's Nicky Maynard, although a deal for the Greek international looks a long way from completion even if earlier reports of the move progressing are true. Neither the Greek nor the German media are reporting any developments so far today.

Crewe are believed to want £2 million for Maynard with Town and Bristol City reported to have offered in excess of £1 million for the 21-year-old at the end of last week. A bid nearer Crewe's valuation ought to be enough to secure the one-time Witton Albion loanee, although several other sides are also monitoring the situation.

Town also want to add a left-back to their ranks ahead of the new season the Blues understood to be monitoring one or two potential signings including Dagenham and Redbridge's Scott Griffiths and released Sunderland man Ian Harte.

A left-footed midfielder may also be on Jim Magilton's list with Plymouth's Péter Halmosi linked with the Blues and a number of other clubs, most notably Hull City.

Elsewhere, Emile Mpenza's agent Rachid Tajmout says his player isn't on trial with Hull, contrary to widespread reports. Tajmout says Town are the only English club he has recently spoken to: "He is not on trial at Hull and there has been no contact with Hull.

"He is currently training in Belgium and keeping himself fit while we look to sort his future out. But I have not spoken to anyone connected to Hull.

"Emile is very keen to stay in England. Of course there is always speculation, but the only club I have spoken to recently was Ipswich.

"There is some interest from abroad but ideally he wants to stay in England. He loves the football and living over there.

"The hope is of course for the Premier League, but if not then we can consider the Championship."

A fortnight ago Tajmout said the Blues had ended their interest in his player, Town chief executive Derek Bowden having previously ruled the Blues out of the running for the released Manchester City man.

Meanwhile, former midfielder Frans Thijssen was back at Portman Road at the weekend to collect the award relating to his induction to Town's Hall of Fame in March.

Another ex-Town midfielder Kevin Horlock, set to face the Blues with Bury Town in a pre-season friendly at Ram Meadow on Wednesday, is also talking to King's Lynn regarding a move to the Linnets as he weighs up his options having dropped out of the professional game at the end of the season.


Photo: Action Images



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