BBC: McKenna likely to decline new Ipswich deal

Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna is expected to refuse any new contract, despite interest from Chelsea and Brighton.

The 38-year-old is also thought to be on Manchester United’s radar if they decide to make a move with Erik ten Hag’s future uncertain.

McKenna, who is under contract with Ipswich until 2027, is known for his ambition and desire to advance his career.

Talks with Ipswich are anticipated to take place this week, with the Tractor Boys offering McKenna a new contract to entice him to stay at Portman Road.

BBC Sport believes that is anticipated to fail, with the manager and assistant Martyn Pert believing the moment is ripe to move.

Chelsea are said to be in pole position, despite Brighton’s desire, with United’s situation complicating matters since they have still to announce what will happen with Ten Hag.

Any team will have to pay at least £4 million in compensation to sign McKenna and Pert.

Ipswich are not panicking; they are cool and understand that this is part of the deal following McKenna’s amazing achievement in returning them to the Premier League for the first time since 2001-02.

They presented a united face at the League Managers Association awards in London on Tuesday, where McKenna was named Championship manager of the year and LMA manager of the year.

It happened after he brought Ipswich back to the Premier League, sealing straight promotions having placed second in League One in 2023.

They finished second to Leicester in the Championship this season, earning over 90 points and scoring more than 90 goals in both seasons.

McKenna, a lifelong Manchester United fan, spent five years at Old Trafford under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before joining Ipswich in December 2021.