Ipswich Town’s pursuit of Blackburn Rovers striker Sam Gallagher reportedly stalls as Kyle Edwards joins Oxford United
Ipswich Town’s pursuit of Blackburn Rovers striker Sam Gallagher has reportedly stalled.
It had been reported that the Tractor Boys were interested in the 28-year-old and had seen offers for the striker rejected.
According to TWTD, the move has made no progress over the last few days.
Kieran McKenna was questioned about the Blues’ interest in Rovers’ front-man in his pre-match press conference before the visit of Sunderland last Friday, and the Town boss said: “It’s clear we’re never going to speculate on any player, never mind a player who is contracted with another club.”
Also, reports at the Daily Express have stated that the Ewood Park outfit have had a change of heart and do not wish to sell Gallagher.
The striker, who had been sidelined for the majority of the season so far with a calf injury, made his first appearance since September in Blackburn’s 4-1 defeat at West Brom on Saturday.
This was only his sixth appearance of the Sky Bet Championship campaign, in which he has netted once.
It looks like Town’s search for a striker is set to continue as the Tractor Boys look to find a suitable replacement for George Hirst, who suffered a hamstring injury in the draw with Leicester City on Boxing Day, which has ruled the 24-year-old for a large majority of the season.
McKenna previously stated that the Blues wanted to add a goalscorer before Hirst’s injury and now there is an ‘increased importance’ in bringing in another striker.
Another forward Town admire is Jay Stansfield, according to TWTD, who is currently on loan at Birmingham City from Fulham.
Ex-Birmingham boss Wayne Rooney revealed that there is a small period in this window in which the Cottagers can recall the 21-year-old which new head coach Tony Mowbray has confirmed is not up yet.
Speaking to Birmingham World, Mowbray said: “No, it hasn’t closed, I’ve been trying to get hold of Marco Silva over the last couple of days. I get on well with Marco. I’m pretty sure he would’ve been telling me if there were any issues or problems.
“I think the kid loves it here, ultimately. I had a one-on-one, I looked him in the eye. There are other interested parties but I think he wants to stay here and score goals. He likes the dressing room, he likes the players. I think he’s here just to progress his career.
Meanwhile, former Town winger Kyle Edwards has signed a permanent deal with Oxford United until the end of the season.
The 25-year-old had his contract at Portman Road ‘mutually terminated’ last week after his loan spell at the U’s was cut short amid injury frustration.
However, it was then revealed that the player who came through the ranks at West Bromwich Albion would stay with the Yellows for his rehabilitation from the hamstring issue until April, having only made six appearances, after settling in the area.
Speaking to Oxford United’s official website, head coach Des Buckingham said: “We are really pleased to have Kyle back because we know what a good player he is and the level of performance he is capable of.
“We weren’t expecting him to become available but, once he did, it seemed a sensible solution for all concerned. The team will work with Kyle as he continues his rehab, and he should be fit for the last month of the regular season.
“To have him available at the business end of this campaign will be an excellent boost at a key time. He is a very positive character and I’m sure the fans will welcome Kyle back.”