TRANSFER LIVE: Ipswich Town Boss Shortlists Eight Potential Replacements for Departed Defender Cameron Burgess
Ipswich Town are expected to dive into the transfer market in search of a new left-sided centre-back, following the confirmed departure of Cameron Burgess to Swansea City. Manager Kieran McKenna now faces the task of reinforcing his backline ahead of the new campaign as the club prepares for a competitive return to the Premier League.
Burgess played a pivotal role in Ipswich’s promotion-winning season, and filling the void left by the Australia international won’t be straightforward. However, recruitment is already underway and a shortlist of high-calibre targets has emerged.
Journalist Alex Jones has identified eight possible names, blending youth and experience, who could step into the left centre-back role at Portman Road. Among them:
- Teden Mengi (Luton Town): The 22-year-old impressed despite Luton’s relegation and could be tempted by top-flight football again.
- Callum Doyle (Manchester City): A ball-playing defender with multiple EFL loan spells, Doyle has the technical profile McKenna values.
- Ben Mee (Brentford): The experienced Premier League veteran would bring leadership and composure, although his wage demands may be a factor.
Other rumoured options include:
- Luke McNally (Burnley): Strong in the air and defensively disciplined, he would offer Championship-proven depth.
- Jake Clarke-Salter (QPR): A composed defender with ball progression ability, though fitness remains a concern.
- Jacob Greaves (Hull City): Tall, physical, and comfortable on the ball, Greaves has long been on the radar of top-flight clubs.
- Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton): While a move would be ambitious, even a loan could be transformative—though Everton may demand a hefty fee or keep him.
- Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Manchester City): Another promising City academy product who helped Southampton gain promotion last season.
One under-the-radar name worth monitoring is Caleb Okoli from Atalanta. The 22-year-old Italian centre-back boasts Serie A and European experience and is reportedly available for a reasonable fee. His pace, defensive anticipation, and left-footed distribution make him an ideal fit for McKenna’s system.
With the Premier League kick-off fast approaching, Ipswich must act quickly to secure the right fit. Defensive stability will be critical as they aim to cement their top-flight status, and finding a quality replacement for Burgess is now at the top of the club’s transfer agenda.
