TWTD understands that former loanee Reece Brown could join Town’s legion of summer Bosman signings following his recent release by Manchester United.
Other clubs, including League Two Bristol Rovers, are believed to have offered terms to the centre-half, who is the younger brother of former England international Wes, but the 6ft 2in tall Mancunian looks set to opt for a return to Portman Road when his Red Devils contract is up at the end of the month.
The 21-year-old joined the Blues on loan in February and subsequently made one sub appearance for the first team, in addition to featuring regularly for the U21s.
England U20 international Brown previously had spells on loan at Bradford, Doncaster, Oldham and Coventry, and has also played as a holding midfielder and at full-back.
Adding strength in depth at the back would appear to be one of Mick McCarthy's priorities ahead of the start of the season with the squad short of cover at centre-half and at right-back since the departure of loanees Brown, Patrick Kisnorbo and Richard Stearman at the end of the last campaign.
Meanwhile, former Town defender Pim Balkestein has joined VVV-Venlo back in his native Holland on a three-year deal having been released by AFC Wimbledon at the end of the season.