Former Blue Connor Wickham has again been linked with a return to Portman Road on loan. The 19-year-old will reportedly be allowed to move on loan if Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill secures the signing of another striker with Town perhaps his destination.
Wickham was mentioned in connection with a possible return to Portman Road on loan in May when both manager Paul Jewell and chief executive Simon Clegg said they would be interested if he was available.
Jewell also confirmed that the Blues had first refusal, although said a loan deal might not be an easy one to do: "We have first say on Connor as part of the deal that took him to Sunderland, although there are other factors regarding wages that will make it difficult for any Championship club to take him.”
Wickham joined Sunderland from Town last summer for an initial fee of £8.1 million but made only six starts and 13 sub appearances last season, scoring one goal.
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough have announced that they expect Blues target George Friend to formally join them on Monday having agreed personal terms after undergoing a medical.
Another reported Town target, former Dundee United midfielder Scott Robertson, has joined Blackpool on a two-year deal.
Elsewhere, ex-Blue David Norris has completed his move from Portsmouth to Leeds, signing a three-year contract.