Target Practice #5

The transfer window is almost open, which seems impossible given the number of names that have already been linked with the club. With a transfer rumour appearing on our timelines almost on a daily basis, we’re bound to find favourites. Some people, out of love for a certain player or a rumour, will convince themselves that it’s going to happen, only for the player to end up signing a new contract at Luton…

Either way, the transfer window is a constant rollercoaster and in this edition of ‘Target Practice’, I am going to take a look at three players that I would like to see move to Portman Road this summer. Whilst I have acted in the realms of plausibility, all three of these choices are ambitious picks that would be a real statement of intent from Town’s new owners. Some have already been linked, some haven’t been mentioned, but all would vastly improve Town’s squad.

Martyn Waghorn

A familiar face who became a fan’s favourite during his short spell at Portman Road during the 2017/18 season, Waghorn’s name was linked with a surprise return a few weeks ago. Reaction amongst the fanbase was mixed, but I’m all in on the 31-year-old making a triumphant return…

Derby fans may be willing to drive Waghorn back to Suffolk, but I’m sure many fans would accept his return given the form he showed following his transfer from Rangers. Powerful, intelligent and charismatic, Waghorn endeared himself to the Town fans and the surrounding community. Scoring 16 goals in 44 appearances, Waghorn was a pleasant change from the lacklustre number 9’s who couldn’t hit a skyscraper, let alone the back of the net.

Waghorn’s move to Derby has been mixed, but he has still shown his quality and grit when required. Whilst his first two seasons at Pride Park saw a similar return to that of his time at Portman Road, Waghorn’s most recent campaign has been blighted by poor form and injury. Scoring 5 goals and providing 4 assists, the 31-year-old endured his worst season since his return to England, a remark that could be made to most of the underperforming Derby squad that survived relegation by the skin of their teeth.

The future of Town’s former number 9 seems up in the air, with conflicting reports circulating regarding his future. Will Derby offer a new contract? Will Cardiff swoop in? Or will Ipswich prove to be the final destination for the soon-to-be free agent? Waghorn still has an immense amount of quality that would undoubtedly thrive in England’s third-tier. His physicality and intelligence were clear for all to see during his brief stint and despite the length of that stay, Waghorn endeared himself to a surrounding community that would welcome him back with open arms.

Charlie Kirk

Crewe Alexandra have become a breeding ground for talented youngsters, and Charlie Kirk is no different. Whilst Town have been linked with the man on the opposite wing, Owen Dale, I believe that Kirk could be the more accomplished option.

This deal is far-fetched due to the size of the fee involved. Whereas deals were easier to conclude in a more balanced market, Crewe will undoubtedly be seeking a figure over £1 million, a sum that Town would be unlikely to spend, despite the recent investment.

At only 23, Kirk has become one of the brightest prospects in England’s third tier, along with fellow Town target Owen Dale. Operating as an offensive left-winger, Kirk has a wonderful range of passing and distinct eye for goal. He scored 6 goals and provided 8 assists for a newly-promoted Crewe side that finished comfortably in mid-table.

As a right-footer, Kirk is another example of a classic inverted winger who finds great joy cutting in from the left and bending a shot into the far corner. He’s been a standout performer for a Crewe side that are continually on the rise, and Town’s investment would surely be recouped as the 23-year-old’s stock is only set to rocket.

Paul Cook teams have always operated with direct wide-men and Kirk would be perfect addition to Town’s squad. Again, the fee will be the sticking point, but Town have some assets that they could offer in exchange. A year ago, I wrote a piece for the EADT detailing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and how lower league clubs could have their best players pinched for a cut price. Has Kirk’s market value been altered by Crewe’s financial position? Only time will tell, but I’d be surprised if the tricky winger was turning out at The Alexandra Stadium next season.

Cedric Kipre

This certainly isn’t a cheap list…

Cedric Kipre is by far the least realistic option on this list, but nothing is impossible in the world of football. The 24-year-old moved to West Brom last summer from Wigan following the Greater Manchester club’s relegation from the Championship, but has ultimately struggled to force his way into the first team. With appearances for the Baggies limited to three cup games, Kipre spent the second half of the season on loan at Belgian club Charleroi, where he once again failed to make an impact.

All this is not to serve against the talent that Kipre possesses. A hard-tackling centre-half with a brilliant footballing brain, the 24-year-old Paris-born defender starred for Paul Cook’s Wigan team during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. Making 74 league appearances across his two years at the DW, Kipre made an impressive mark in England’s second-tier.

Whilst teammates such as Chey Dunkley and Leon Balogun may be more realistic targets for Town, I would say it’s worth pushing the boat out and trying to get Kipre to move down South. Whilst a transfer is unlikely, a loan deal could prove beneficial for all parties involved, with the former Motherwell defender in desperate need of consistent playing time.

Town are in the market for central defenders and with the likes of Nsiala and Woolfenden already at the club, Kipre would provide much-needed stability to Town’s back line. His wages would be high, but Town appear willing to negotiate shrewd deals in the market, freeing up funds for marquee signings such as Kipre.

Known to Cook and in need of a career refresh, Cedric Kipre would certainly become a pivotal member of Town’s promotion push.

And those are my picks! As I’ve said, these are three players that I’d like to see sign for Town; feel free to let me know your thoughts and get in touch if you have any recommendations for players that you would like to see become part of Town’s new look side for next season! Thank you for taking the time to read this piece, I’ll see you again soon!