IPSWICH are haggling over a deal for Blackburn striker Sammie Szmodics — with the teams just £500,000 apart on a fee.
They have been debating the guaranteed sum starting point and Ipswich are at £8.5million but will not budge to the £9m demanded.
The package for Szmodics, 28, includes extras for goals, a survival bonus and even a promotion pay-out if Ipswich are relegated but then come straight back up to the Prem.
However, the negotiators cannot sort out the first sum, to the frustration of all parties and the player.
Szmodics is coming off the season of his life, hitting 31 goals in all competitions despite Blackburn struggling to 19th.
Everton registered their interest in the Ireland international before midfielder Amadou Onana joined Aston Villa.
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Prem newcomers Ipswich eyed a move for Szmodics after signing Liam Delap from Manchester City last month.
Szmodics signed a new deal in November 2023, tying him to Ewood Park until 2026, with the option of a further year.
He previously told the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast: “I have two and a half years on my contract and so it is out of my hands.
“It’s a case of me enjoying my summer and seeing what’s out there. I don’t think anyone would begrudge me if a Premier League team came knocking.
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“It is everyone’s dream to play in the Premier League. I don’t know if that opportunity will arise but I don’t think anyone could be blamed if they have the chance to play in the top flight.
“Look at Adam Wharton, he’s 20 and flying at Crystal Palace, he’s Blackburn through and through. I am 28 now and I want to test myself.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
