Boss Jim Magilton has confirmed that he tried to re-sign Pablo Couñago during the transfer window. TWTD reported last week that Spanish sources were claiming the Blues were back in for the striker who left Portman Road for Malaga in the summer of 2005.

Magilton says the 27-year-old could still rejoin the club he moved to from Celta Vigo on a Bosman in 2001: “I went after Pablo for a very good reason - he's a quality player and I felt he could be a real asset to us.

“It didn't work out this time but he is out of contract in the summer and we could revisit the situation then. I would certainly not rule it out.

“There were a few complications, one of them being that Malaga weren't keen to let go of him, but that will not be a problem in the summer when he will be a free agent.

“I think he's a very, very good player but I had to be sure that he wanted to come back for the right reasons and when I spoke to him it was clear he has a real hunger about him to return and perhaps prove a few people wrong.”

Spanish reports over the weekend claimed that Malaga wanted around £130,000 for the former U21 international. A number of clubs in Spain were also said to be chasing the frontman.

Couñago's first season back in Spain ended with his side dropping out of La Liga, the former Town man making 28 appearances and scoring three goals. This year in the Spanish second division Couñago has scored four times in 13 games.

Fans' favourite Couñago was released after falling out with former boss Joe Royle with the Blues having been keen to off-load his wages which approached the £20,000-a-week mark during his final season. If he were to return in the summer, his salary would be significantly lower.

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