Ipswich Town are set to battle Turkish giants Besiktas and relegated Premier League side Sheffield United for the signature of Tom Lawrence, according to a report by The Scottish Mail.
Since Kieran McKenna confirmed he extended his stay at Portman Road, his sights quickly became set on building a squad ready for their top-flight campaign. Although numerous players in the squad excelled during their impressive and arguably unexpected promotion run, signings will undoubtedly still need to be made to ensure an immediate return to the second tier is not on the cards.
One player that is seemingly already on the radar is Lawrence. The winger, who is currently plying his trade for Scottish Premier League runners-up Rangers, is set for a move away from Ibrox this summer after two years north of the border.
The former Derby County star, who made almost 200 appearances for The Rams, could be seen as an immediate improvement for the squad, even if that is just as an improvement to squad depth.
However, the report also states that Ipswich are set to face stiff competition for the Welshman from fellow English side Sheffield United. After relegation from the Premier League, and with a points deduction imposed on the side for the start of next season, Blades boss Chris Wilder will be looking to bolster his attacking options.
With vast experience in the second tier, Lawrence could be the perfect addition to the side, whereas his lack of Premier League experience could prove to be too much of a risk for the Tractor Boys. Ultimately however, if either of the two sides want his signature, they will have to fend off competition from each other and Besiktas, leaving the winger with a tough choice to make this summer.
Writer’s View
Lawrence has shown throughout his career that he has the ability required to perform at a top level in the Championship, however, there could be an argument that a step up in division could be too much.
With his time at Rangers not going as strongly as he may have hoped, Ipswich may decide that this is a risk not worth taking during a transfer window where they need to build for the future.
