Ipswich Town have accelerated their search for a new first-choice goalkeeper after submitting an official bid for Union Saint-Gilloise shot-stopper Kjell Scherpen.
Reports in the Netherlands claim negotiations between the two clubs are progressing well, while the 25-year-old has already reached an agreement in principle over personal terms with the Premier League newcomers.
If the deal is completed, Scherpen would become one of Ipswich's marquee signings of the summer as Ipswich Town looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new top-flight campaign.
Personal terms agreed as talks continue
Ipswich initially distanced themselves from links with Scherpen earlier in the transfer window, but interest has intensified significantly in recent days.
According to Dutch outlet AD, the club have now lodged a formal offer with Union Saint-Gilloise, with discussions ongoing over the final transfer fee.
Belgian journalist Joost Blaauwhof reports that personal terms have already been agreed in principle, leaving the two clubs to finalise the financial details of the move.
Union are expected to receive a substantial profit on the goalkeeper, having signed him permanently from Brighton & Hove Albion for around £4.2 million just last summer.
Scherpen identified as Ipswich's new No.1
The Dutch goalkeeper is viewed as the experienced option Ipswich have been searching for despite their imminent signing of Kayne van Oevelen from Volendam.
Van Oevelen is expected to provide depth or gain experience on loan, while Scherpen has been identified as the player capable of becoming the club's first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League.
Standing at 6ft 9in, Scherpen enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Union Saint-Gilloise, helping the Belgian club finish second in the Pro League and lift the Belgian Cup.
The former Brighton goalkeeper also gained valuable experience during loan spells with Oostende, Vitesse and Sturm Graz before establishing himself in Belgium.
Ipswich believe his combination of top-flight experience, commanding aerial presence and shot-stopping ability makes him an ideal addition as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Key Points
- Ipswich Town have submitted an official bid for Kjell Scherpen.
- Personal terms have reportedly already been agreed in principle.
- Talks with Union Saint-Gilloise are progressing positively.
- Scherpen is expected to become Ipswich's new first-choice goalkeeper.
- The Dutchman impressed in Belgium after joining Union from Brighton last summer.
What's next?
Negotiations between Ipswich and Union Saint-Gilloise are expected to continue over the coming days as both clubs work towards a full agreement. If a fee is finalised, Scherpen could complete his medical and become another key addition ahead of Ipswich's return to Premier League football.
Would Kjell Scherpen be the right goalkeeper to help Ipswich establish themselves back in the Premier League?
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