An update has emerged on Ipswich's pursuit of Middlesbrough defender Hayden Coulson... 

What's the talk?

According to TEAMtalk, Ipswich are on the verge of completing a deal to sign full-back Hayden Coulson from Middlesbrough. The report claims that the Tractor Boys are leading the race for his signature, although it remains to be seen whether it will be a permanent deal or on loan.

Sunderland and Luton are also reportedly interested in signing Coulson from the Championship side. Ipswich, though, look set to end their pursuits of him by bringing him to Portman Road.

Over the moon

Ipswich boss Paul Cook will be over the moon with this update as it appears as though his squad is set to be bolstered with a quality, versatile, addition in the coming days. Coulson can play at left-back and as a left-winger, with the Blues currently lacking a natural left midfielder in the team.

Matt Penney and Myles Kenlock can both play at left-back, which means that Cook could be earmarking him for the midfield role on the left.

Earlier this year, Coulson played in midfield on the wing and then in the number 10 position for Boro, with manager Neil Warnock singing his praises after the game. He told Gazette Live:

“He does so well in training in that type of situation - tight areas with bodies around him. He’s the best player at the club in training in those tight situations.

“So we thought, why not give him a go at number ten. This opportunity came today.

“We didn’t have many options, but it was a good time to let him have a look at that position.

“And I think he revelled in it after the first five minutes. It looked like he was a breath of fresh air.”

Therefore, the £3.2k-per-week dynamo could be utilised in midfield for Ipswich to strengthen the attacking options, whilst also being able to fill in at left-back when needed. In the 2019/20 Championship campaign, Coulson played 30 games in the Championship and averaged a WhoScored rating of 6.76.

In that time, he made 2.8 tackles and interceptions per game and this proves that he has the ability to compete in the second tier, which is why Cook will be over the moon that he looks set to have him in League One next season.

Hopefully, Ipswich will be able to carry this one over the line and Coulson will be a big success at Portman Road in the coming months.

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