New signing Adam Webster says he was aware that there was interest from Town in January and is delighted that it led to his move to the Blues from Portsmouth, which the clubs confirmed earlier this afternoon. The 21-year-old will officially become a Town player on July 1st with Matt Clarke, 19, and a fee understood to be approaching the £750,000 mark moving in the opposite direction.
The Blues faced League Two Pompey in two third round FA Cup ties with the League Two side running out 2-1 winners at Fratton Park in a replay after the first game at Portman Road had ended 2-2.
"I was aware there was some interest from Ipswich from when we played in the FA Cup and I’m delighted things have moved on the way they have,” Webster told the club site.
"I want to thank everyone at Portsmouth who has helped me in my career. It’s a great club and I have some fantastic memories from my time there but now I can’t wait to get started as an Ipswich player.
Delighted to have signed for @Official_ITFC can't wait to get started!! Thanks for all the messages! 💙– Adam Webster (@AdamWebster31) June 6, 2016
"It’s a big test for me, stepping up to the Championship and joining a club like Ipswich, but I’m ready for the challenge and I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad in pre-season.
"Having played at Ipswich in January and experiencing the fantastic stadium, it’s given me a look at what it’s like to be at the club and I just want to get going now.”
Ball-playing centre-half Webster, who also operates at right-back, has signed a three-year deal with an option for a further season.
Meanwhile, former Blues winger Reggie Lambe, 25, has joined Carlisle United after turning down a new contract at Mansfield Town.
Elsewhere, ex-Town striker Shefki Kuqi is reported in talks with Port Vale regarding the vacant manager's job at the League One club.
The 39-year-old is currently boss at PK-35 Vantaa in Finland, where his former Blues team-mate Pablo Couñago is a member of his squad.
pic.twitter.com/0wu0vXabsc– Adam Webster (@AdamWebster31) June 6, 2016
Good luck @AdamWebster31 - you've come a long way since this fresh-faced lad who went to Spain with 1st team in 2011 pic.twitter.com/IVHwzQFQ6p
— Portsmouth FC (@officialpompey) June 6, 2016