Town have made a £1.5 million bid for Crewe Alexandra striker Nicky Maynard, according to one of today's tabloids. The Blues are also keen on re-signing full-back Danny Simpson on loan from Manchester United.

Maynard, 21, came through the famous youth system at Gresty Road and was in the side which reached the 2004 FA Youth Cup semi-finals. A year later, the Winsford-born frontman signed his first professional deal, then in 2006 spent time on loan with Unibond League side Witton Albion.

His good form for Witton and in the Railwaymen's reserve side saw him make his full debut for Crewe as a sub on the final day of the 2005/06 season.

Maynard became a regular for the Alex the following season, scoring 19 goals in 32 starts and six sub appearances. Last year, he continued to be a threat in front of goal, but the early part of his season was disrupted by a broken fibula and ankle ligament damage sustained in August against Brighton.

In April, the 5ft 11in tall striker netted his first senior hat-trick in a 3-1 home win over Cheltenham, ending the season having scored 15 goals in 25 starts and three sub appearances.

Maynard, whose father Dave was a well known non-league player, is contracted to Crewe until the summer of 2010, having signed a four-year deal in 2006. Middlesbrough, Blackburn, Bolton, Sunderland and West Brom have all been linked with a move for Maynard this summer, although Tony Mowbray's club subsequently denied any interest.

Meanwhile, Town boss Jim Magilton says he hopes he might be able to bring former loanee Danny Simpson back to Portman Road on loan from Manchester United next season: "Danny sees himself as a Manchester United player and his manager speaks very highly of him.

"But if there is a chance to bring him back on loan I will explore the situation fully.”

Simpson enjoyed his time with the Blues, apparently giving Sir Alex Ferguson rave reviews of life at Portman Road and Magilton is hopeful that Town can forge links with the Premier League champions which could see more youngsters spend spells on loan in Suffolk.

Elsewhere, released academy goalkeeper Andy Plummer has signed a one-year deal with Northern Irish side Bangor after being recommended to them by Jim Magilton.

Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi continues to be linked with a move to West Brom, who now appear favourites to sign the former England U21 striker. Town are amongst a host of interested clubs, but the 26-year-old is believed to want to remain in the Premier League.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls