Exclusive: Ipswich overtake to finalise talks as Tottenham step back in the race

TEAMtalk can exclusively reveal that Ipswich Town are leading numerous Premier League rivals, including Everton and West Ham United, in the hunt to sign highly rated Hull City star Jacob Greaves.

Ipswich are ready for their first Premier League season since 2002, following an incredible back-to-back promotion under Kieran McKenna. The Tractor Boys understand it will be difficult to continue in the top division due to the large quantities of money involved, but they have already reinforced McKenna’s team with two major additions.

Ipswich Town have shattered their transfer record by spending £18 million to re-sign winger Omari Hutchinson from Chelsea, following his outstanding loan spell at Portman Road last season. Depending on add-ons, the transfer might cost up to £22 million.

Ipswich have followed up on that deal by signing Ben Johnson on a free transfer after his West Ham contract expired. Johnson, who can play as a full-back on either side of the defence, has signed a four-year contract with the Suffolk club.

Ipswich will not stop there, either, with insiders telling TEAMtalk that Hull star Greaves is definitely on their radar.

Last season, the defender performed admirably for Hull and was selected to the Championship Team of the Season.

A number of Premier League clubs, notably Everton and West Ham, are interested in Greaves, but according to reports, Ipswich are attempting to get ahead of their competitors by increasing their interest in the muscular centre-back.

Ipswich are looking for a new centre-back in the summer transfer window, and Greaves meets the criteria for the type of player the club wants.

Transfer news: Ipswich want Greaves after Rodon miss

Ipswich initially targeted Wales international Joe Rodon of Tottenham Hotspur to improve their backline, but he has returned to Leeds United on a permanent basis after a good season on loan at Elland Road last season. Ipswich has turned their focus to Greaves, who was originally valued at approximately £13 million.

Hull are aware of the growing interest in the 23-year-old and understand that they may face a battle to keep him while the window remains open.

Greaves, who graduated from Hull’s development system in the summer of 2020, has made over 175 appearances for the club, contributing six goals and eight assists.