Ipswich agree deal for Hull’s Philogene, close on Delap

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Ipswich have had an offer of around £18m accepted for Hull winger Jaden Philogene and are also nearing a deal for Manchester City striker Liam Delap.

The Suffolk club has agreed to pay £20m for England Under-21 international Delap as they gear up for their return to the Premier League.

Last month, Everton showed interest in signing Philogene and reached a fee agreement with Hull on Tuesday, but the 22-year-old has preferred a move to Portman Road.

Aston Villa retained a buy-back option under specific conditions after selling Philogene to Hull last September.

Villa’s deal with Hull includes a clause giving them three days to match any bid once an agreement is reached.

Crystal Palace also considered Philogene but ultimately decided against it, deeming the deal too expensive.

Hull owner Acun Ilicali mentioned there was significant interest from Barcelona in signing Philogene.

The England Under-21 player scored 12 goals in 32 games for Hull last season, helping them finish seventh in the Championship.

Philogene played alongside international teammate Delap at Hull, who was on loan with the Tigers last season and scored eight goals in 32 appearances.

These anticipated signings follow the £20m acquisition of Omari Hutchinson from Chelsea, a player who aided Ipswich’s promotion while on loan last season, and the free transfer of Ben Johnson from West Ham.

Ipswich will kick off their season against Liverpool at Portman Road on August 17.