Ipswitch desparate to add defenders before Leeds clash

Ipswich will look to strengthen their depleted defensive options ahead of the home game with Leeds this weekend.

The Blues were humiliated on Saturday, losing 7-1 to Peterborough United in from of the cameras.

With Ivar Ingimarsson injured and youngster Tommy Smith suspended, Town have been left with only one recognised central defender available.

Going into the new season, Town manager Paul Jewell knew that his defensive options were limited, but following heavy defeats to Southampton and Peterborough, the need for reinforcements has been highlighted.

Jewell says he has this week placed a bid for a Premier League defender, and is waiting to hear back.

He told the club’s official site: “We’ve been trying to get in more defenders since the end of last season.

“We’ve made enquiry after enquiry, and it’s been very frustrating, but you have to be patient.
“An offer has gone in for a player last night. It’s a new target and I’m waiting for his manager to get back to me this morning.
“It’s an offer for a centre-half who plays for a Premier League club. It is dependent on them but I am hopeful.”

The club have taken former Stoke City defender Ibrahima Sonko, who will wear Henry’s Puma boots should he play while on trial this week, with Town hoping to add him to their squad.

Sonko admitted on his Twitter page that a deal had not yet been agreed, but he was hopeful something could be done.

He tweeted: “They said they’ll make an offer, but we’ll just have to wait and see. Two games in three days, hard to have time for talk.”

Town are known to have been in the market for defenders this summer, having tried to sign Jonathan Woodgate and Matthew Upson before their moves to Stoke.

Anton Ferdinand also turned down a switch to Portman Road, instead deciding to push for a place in the Sunderland team.

The club have been linked with loan moves for Ryan Shotton from Stoke, Pablo Ibanez from West Brom and Shane Lowry from Aston Villa.