TWTD understands that Town are close to completing the signing of Waterford United winger Jack Doherty. The 18-year-old came on as a half-time sub this evening as the Airtricity First Division side drew 0-0 with Mervue at home.
We understand a deal is all but agreed between the clubs with Town set to pay an initial fee in the region of £50,000 plus further cash after Doherty hits appearance milestones. The move could be confirmed as soon as Monday with Doherty becoming Mick McCarthy's seventh signing of the summer.
As revealed a fortnight ago, Doherty joined the Blues for their pre-season training camp at Carton House in Kildare.
The winger, who also spent time training with the Town academy during Roy Keane’s time in charge of the club, subsequently tweeted that he had enjoyed his stint with the squad: "Loved it here, great bunch of lads, Ipswich. Good session [this] morning.”
Born in Clonmel, Doherty came through the youth system at Waterford and was promoted to the first team squad in August 2011. Since then he has established himself as a regular member of the senior squad.
Capped by Ireland Schools, Doherty was called up to an Ireland U19 squad for a training camp in Spain in March.