Chairman David Sheepshanks has confirmed that he has made an approach to Blackburn Rovers regarding the availability of striker Franny Jeffers. The Blues have been told that Mark Hughes will decide whether he wants to keep the one-time England striker after their season ends next week.

Jeffers has another year on his contract and may cost a fee, although Rovers might be willing to allow the free signing from Charlton to leave for nothing. Benni McCarthy, Jason Roberts, Matt Derbyshire, Paul Gallagher and Shabani Nonda are all ahead of Jeffers in the Ewood Park pecking order and Craig Bellamy is tipped to make a summer return from Liverpool.

The 26-year-old, who is understood to be on a pay-as-you-play deal at Blackburn, has also been linked with Derby County, but has said he would like to join the Blues if Rovers no longer require his services.

Meanwhile, David Healy is again being linked with Town as a possible alternative option if the Blues fail to land Jeffers. Healy is certain to leave relegated Leeds and is a friend of Blues boss Jim Magilton, who has said how highly he rates Northern Ireland's star striker on numerous occasions. However, a number of Premiership clubs are expected to show interest in Healy during the close season.

Elsewhere, John McGreal is the latest former Blue to be linked with a return. The 34-year-old is out of contract at Burnley at the end of the season and would be available on a free transfer.

Get the fastest and most comprehensive Ipswich Town news service at ipswichtown.footballlatest.co.uk.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls