Sammie Szmodics is on his way for a medical at Portman Road, as he is finally set to leave Blackburn Rovers in a deal believed to be worth £10m including add-ons.
The 28-year-old Essex native, who is known for his versatility and goal-scoring prowess, will become Kieran McKenna's and Ipswich Town’s eighth summer signing. Here's what fans can expect from the Irish international.
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Who is Sammie Szmodics?
Sammie Szmodics began his career at Colchester United, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dynamic and energetic midfielder. With an eye for goal and a knack for creating opportunities, Szmodics became a fan favourite.
His performances earned him a move to Peterborough United in 2019, where he further showcased his talents, playing a pivotal role in the club's promotion to England's second tier.
At The Posh, Szmodics was known for his tenacity, quick feet, and ability to play as a traditional number ten as well as a more advanced forward. His fifteen goals in the 2020/21 season were instrumental in helping his side secure promotion to the Championship.
Szmodics' performances at United caught the eye of Blackburn Rovers, who signed him in the summer of 2022. While his time at Ewood Park was mixed, with moments of brilliance, primarily last season, punctuated by injuries, he showed he can be a difference-maker at Championship level, becoming the league's top scorer last season in a team flirting with relegation.
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Ipswich spending set to reach £90m
Ipswich Town are in full resurgence mode under manager Kieran McKenna.
After back-to-back promotions and having not been in the Premier League since 2002, the addition of Szmodics for a fee believed to be £9m plus add-ons is another statement by the club in their quest for survival. This deal will bring their spending to over £90m, following the also soon-to-be-confirmed arrival of Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.
Szmodics brings a wealth of experience, albeit at the lower levels of the English football pyramid, a winning mentality, and a hunger and desire to perform on the biggest stage of them all.
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What Ipswich can expect from Szmodics
Versatility
The attacker can operate in various roles across the midfield and frontline. Whether deployed as an attacking midfielder, a second striker, or even out wide, his adaptability will provide McKenna with the valuable tactical flexibility he demands from the players in his squad.
Goal threat
Scoring 33 goals in 79 games for Blackburn, he has a proven track record of scoring goals from deep. Szmodics' ability to find space in the box and finish chances could add an extra dimension to Ipswich's attacking play, easing the burden on their strikers - his clinical finishing could be crucial in ensuring The Tractor Boys' survival.
Work rate and pressing
One of the former Colchester man's most notable attributes is his relentless work rate. He's known for pressing high up the pitch, which fits perfectly with McKenna's style of play.
This could lead to more turnovers and quick transitions, which Ipswich can exploit. They have become well known for their high press over recent seasons, which makes him a perfect fit for the system.
Experience
Having been through the Championship and League One rigour, Szmodics brings a wealth of experience to the table and a battle hardness; he's been through what this squad has and wants to prove he has what it takes in the Premier League.
He knows what it takes to compete. He has four international caps to his name. He has become a leader in Blackburn’s dressing room and leadership will be crucial for The Tractor Boys this season.
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Overall outlook
McKenna has built a side that plays attractive, attacking football, and Szmodics fits seamlessly into that philosophy. His ability to contribute goals and assist from midfield will be crucial as Ipswich battles for survival.
The signing of Sammie Szmodics for an upfront fee of £9m seems to be fantastic business by Ipswich Town. Having set the Championship alight last season, he has a point to prove for The Tractor Boys. His blend of skill, experience, and work ethic makes him an ideal fit for McKenna and his Suffolk side.
