Finidi George has told George Burley that he has heard good things about Town and wants to play for us. The Nigerian has spoken with the Town boss for the first time since negotiations began. All previous talks were with his agent.

George Burley said: "For the first time I’ve spoken to Finidi himself and I’ve been encouraged. I told him how much I’d like him to come and play with Ipswich in the English Premiership and he told me that he is keen to do so. He also told me that he has spoken to various people about Ipswich and has had glowing reports about the club."

The player was expected in town today, but it seems he is still in Spain, Burley: "He wants to come over and see us and hopefully this can happen this week. But there are a few things that have to be sorted out with Real Mallorca first."

Sources in Spain say that a £3.7 million deal has been agreed between the two clubs, but that there are loose ends to sort out. These may be issues relating to the player's Real Mallorca signing-on fees. Finidi has three years of his contract left and as he didn't ask for a transfer he is entitled to any remaining sum not yet paid.

The player's agent is looking into tying up loose ends, Burley again: "The agent is working hard on getting these things sorted out with Mallorca. It’s a wait and see situation, but it was certainly good to talk to Finidi himself and hear what he had to say."

All in all the prospect of Finidi joining Town looks a whole lot more likely than it did a few days ago.

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