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Jim: We Need a Striker - Ipswich Town News

Boss Jim Magilton has reiterated that signing loan striker Franny Jeffers on a permanent basis is his main priority for the summer. The Town manager says that the former England man has told Blackburn Rovers that he wants to return to the Blues for 2007/08.

Magilton told the club site: "There is a lot to happen first before we can look at signing Franny, but my number one target is to bring a goalscorer to this club.

"Alan Lee scored 17 goals last season, which was a fantastic effort from him, but we didn't have anyone else in double figures.

"We have a midfield that I believe can provide the ammunition and if we can find a goalscorer then it will greatly improve us.

"Time will tell if that will be Franny. Having a player of his quality at our club gave the staff, the players and the fans a lift. We have seen the damage a player of his ability can do at this level and I know the lad really enjoyed his time here.

"Franny has spoken to Blackburn and told them he wants to come here if they don't want him.

"He's obviously a player that I would want at our football club, but if it's not Franny, we will need to find another goalscorer."

The Blues are likely to face opposition from other clubs for Jeffers's signature with Derby County recently reported to be showing an interest. Blackburn are expected to make a decision on whether to keep the 26-year-old, who has a year left on his contract, next week.

Meanwhile, first team coach Bryan Klug and specialist skills coach Steve Foley are travelling to La Liga club Valencia to take a look at their training methods and watch their weekend game with Real Zaragoza.

Elsewhere, former Town reserve captain Justin Miller has been linked with a move to Port Vale having been released by Leyton Orient.

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

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