Ipswich Town Target “World-Class” Free Agent Attacking Upgrade

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna is reportedly eyeing former Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech as a potential January signing to boost the club’s Premier League survival hopes. The Moroccan international could be available on a free transfer if his contract with Galatasaray is terminated next month.

Despite struggling to make a consistent impact at Chelsea, Ziyech showed flashes of the ability that prompted the Blues to pay £33.3 million for him in 2020. The 31-year-old recorded 6 goals and 9 assists in the Premier League for Chelsea, numbers that would be welcome at Portman Road given the lack of production from Ipswich’s current wide options.

Wes Burns, who was crucial to Ipswich’s promotion campaign last season, has struggled to adapt to the Premier League with just one goal contribution so far. Ziyech could provide an immediate upgrade on the right wing and offer more creativity to support in-form striker Liam Delap.

At his best for Ajax, Ziyech was a Champions League standout with 10 goals and 11 assists in Europe’s elite competition. While he may be past his peak, the Moroccan still possesses the technical quality and experience to make an impact for a team battling relegation.

It remains to be seen if Ziyech would be interested in joining a relegation fight, but his potential availability on a free transfer makes this a low-risk, high-reward option for Ipswich to explore. McKenna has had success revitalizing former Chelsea players like Omari Hutchinson, so Ziyech could be the next to rediscover his best form under the Northern Irish coach’s guidance.

Signing a player of Ziyech’s pedigree would be a statement of intent from Ipswich as they look to secure their Premier League status. His creativity and goal threat from wide areas could be exactly what the Tractor Boys need to pull away from the relegation zone in the second half of the season.