Amid the eventful saga involving Jaden Philogene, Ipswich could sign a player who Real Madrid wanted in 2021 – and on a free transfer, no less.
Kieran McKenna is currently waiting to see what the England U21 international decides.
Philogene had agreed to join Ipswich on Tuesday – before Aston Villa activated their matching rights clause – with all parties waiting to see if the Hull No.23 changes his mind and moves back to the Midlands.
In the meantime, Ipswich have registered their interest in a free agent…
Ipswich could sign Renato Tapia
A story from Depor in Spain now states that Ipswich want to sign Renato Tapia on a free transfer.
The Peru international’s contract with Celta Vigo has just expired, with Al-Wasl and Porto also monitoring his situation along with the Tractor Boys.
Tapia was actually a target for both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid back in 2021 – according to El Futbolero – which gives you an idea of his footballing pedigree.
The defensive midfielder – who can also play as a central defender – made 25 appearances in all competitions for Celta Vigo last season, captaining both the Spanish outfit and also Peru on several occasions.
Celtic and Rangers have both previously showed a desire to sign Tapia – during his days at Feyenoord.
Tractor Boys could make an inspired move
Tapia sounds like the archetypal defensive midfielder – a selfless figure who also leads by example.
The Peruvian even got himself a feature on FIFA’s official website ahead of the 2018 World Cup, as he was described as the “future captain” of Peru.
That is exactly what has happened with Tapia now captaining his country at the age of 28 – and if McKenna can bring the man from Lima to Portman Road on a free transfer, it could prove to be an inspired piece of business
From a financial aspect, it would also be a smart way of strengthening the squad without spending any more money – Ipswich have already splashed £20m to sign Omari Hutchinson and have seen a £20m bid for Liam Delap accepted by Manchester City, while the Philogene fee currently stands at £18m.
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