Ipswich Town eyeing move for Italian international striker

Ipswich Town are reportedly eyeing a move for Genoa's 19 year-old Italian striker Jeff Ekhator this summer.

The Tractor Boys are wasting no time in the transfer market upon their return to the top flight, with a number of players from England and across the continent linked with a move to Portman Road.

Despite currently being managerless, after Kieran McKenna chose to step back from football, Ipswich are continuing to make progress this summer, with a move for the Italian next on their agenda.

19 year-old Ekhator has been with his boyhood club in Italy since he was eight years old and made his senior debut for the club in the 2024/25 season.

Since then, the Italian international has gone on to make 57 appearances for Genoa, scoring five goals and registering one assist in that period.

Having played for various Italian youth sides, Ekhator made his senior debut for Italy this month, starting on the left wing in Italy's 1-0 win against Greece, which saw a number of young players selected.

Ipswich aren't the only club credited with an interest in signing the young striker, with fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace also interested, alongside various clubs on the continent.

Olympique Marseille, Atalanta, Roma, and Benfica have all been heavily linked with a move for the 19 year-old, whilst Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal have also been credited with an interest.

Ekhator made 30 appearances for the Italian side in Serie A last season, playing just 944 minutes - or the equivalent of around 10.5 matches - and scored three goals, averaging a goal every 314 minutes.

While certainly still a raw talent, the calibre of clubs interested in signing the six foot two striker reflects the reputation that he has built for himself in his short career so far, as Genoa look to retain one of their key young stars.