Watford are reportedly winning the race to sign released Sunderland full-back Ian Harte. The Blues have been linked with the former Republic of Ireland international for some months, while the Hornets, Leicester and Cardiff City were said to be after the ex-Leeds man over the weekend.

Meanwhile, Town's move for Richard Wright might be delayed by Aston Villa's claimed interest in signing West Ham's first choice keeper Robert Green. Villa are said to be ready to pay £6 million for the former Canary.

If the story proves to be true and Green does move on, the Hammers are unlikely to be willing to allow Wright to leave until they have secured at least one new keeper.

Elsewhere, Wright's former Town colleague Tony Mowbray is reported to be continuing his move to sign Newcastle striker and Blues target Shola Ameobi.

Mowbray's West Brom are believed to have offered £1.5 million for the former England U21 international, but have been told they will have to offer more, reportedly £3 million, if they want to secure the 26-year-old's signature.

Town and a number of other Championship sides are interested in Ameobi, who is understood to be keen to remain in the Premier League. Hull City have also been linked.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls