Bristol City skipper Cole Skuse has agreed to join the Blues on a three-year deal this summer, according to reports in a number of today’s tabloids. The 27-year-old, who is out of contract, has been a rumoured Town close season target for several weeks.
Midfielder Skuse, who has also played in defence, has spent his entire career with his hometown club, having made his debut in the 2004/05 season.
The Robins' Player of the Year in 2009/10, he has made a total of 245 starts and 62 sub appearances, scoring nine goals.
Speaking earlier this week, Bristol City boss Sean O’Driscoll admitted that his relegated club would struggle to hold on to their captain: "He's available on a free transfer. I'd love him to stay, but that decision may have already been made. He's a good lad and we've sat down and chatted about things."
Elsewhere, Mick McCarthy is said to be interested in bringing Wolves striker Kevin Doyle to Portman Road.
Republic of Ireland international Doyle, 29, has another year left on his contract at Molineux but seems likely to move on now that the Midlanders' relegation to League One has been confirmed.
McCarthy signed the former Cork City man from Reading when manager at Wolves for a reported £6.5 million in the summer of 2009. Since then he has scored 30 goals in 131 starts and 17 sub appearances.
The Blues boss is a fan of Doyle but earlier this week played down suggestions that he'd return to his old club for summer signings, although McCarthy would be keen to sign loanee Richard Stearman on a permanent basis if a deal can be done.
"They’ve got good players but that doesn’t mean to say I’m going to go tripping back there to sign them," he said.
"And who’s to know what they’re going to cost and what wages they’re on anyway. I’m not thinking that’s my fishing ground at all, not whatsoever.”
Stearman, meanwhile, has tweeted his goodbyes to all at Portman Road: "Would just like to thank everyone connected with ITFC, loved every minute of my time there, which was made so easy by everyone connected with the club.
"So glad we succeeded in our goal of staying up, massive achievement from where started. Thanks again for your support, enjoy your summer."