Promoted Duo Set To Battle It Out For Bargain Ipswich Town Man

Championship side Ipswich Town have slapped a £350k price tag on Leyton Orient loanee Idris El Mizouni, as promoted League One duo Derby County and Oxford United contend for his signature. 

The Tractor Boys are ready to cash in on the France-born midfielder following a second loan spell at Leyton Orient. Although Richie Wellens’ side are reportedly keen to make the move permanent, the interest from Oxford and Derby may rule them out of the race.

The 23-year-old has had spells at Cambridge United (twice) and Grimsby Town on loan before linking up with Orient for the first time in 2022. He played a key role in his side picking up the League Two title before returning the following season as they missed out on a play-off spot, but confirmed another year in the third tier.

According to TWTD, Orient are likely to be priced out of the move by the £350k asking price, meaning they will likely have to look to other targets this summer.

Natural progression for the midfielder?

El Mizouni has shown that he can perform in the fourth tier, and the third tier so naturally the next step would be a move to the Championship. Ipswich were promoted to the Premier League at the first time of asking, so will likely need the squad space to ensure their survival in the topflight.

Oxford and Derby represent a good go between for the player, both sides will be looking to add quality to their sides to stabilise in the second tier before building from the following season.

At 23, El Mizouni is not yet at his peak either, giving the purchasing club potential resale value if he can once again perform to a high level in a higher league. For £350k, you are unlikely to secure many star players in the Championship, so the potential to buy and develop their own could be a solid piece of business.