Ipswich Town might consider securing Kieffer Moore’s services permanently in the upcoming transfer window, yet Sheffield United’s McBurnie could offer a more favorable alternative.
Ipswich Town is gearing up for a significant Premier League campaign after achieving remarkable success over the past two years. Initially securing a 2nd place finish in League One, they made a triumphant return to the Championship. The subsequent season in the second tier was exceptional for the Suffolk club, as they consistently vied for the top three positions and ultimately clinched automatic promotion to the Premier League.
Kieran McKenna has been instrumental in Ipswich’s success, guiding them to back-to-back promotions in his first two full seasons as manager. Despite garnering interest from larger clubs following his team’s achievements, it appears that the 38-year-old will remain at Portman Road for at least another season, much to the delight of Ipswich Town supporters. With McKenna staying put, the fans can rest assured knowing they have a trusted figure at the helm for their daunting Premier League endeavor.
Now that McKenna’s continuity is secured, Ipswich’s focus shifts to preparing the first-team squad for top-flight football. While possessing promising talents like George Hirst and Ali Al-Hamadi, they may seek to bolster their number nine role with Premier League experience. Although Kieffer Moore, who had a loan spell this season, could be a viable option, Sheffield United’s Oli McBurnie emerges as a compelling alternative.
McBurnie, standing at 6ft 2″, boasts three full seasons of Premier League experience with Sheffield United, in addition to previous top-flight appearances with Swansea City. As his contract expires this summer, Ipswich may find McBurnie’s availability enticing. Despite Sheffield United’s relegation to the Championship, McBurnie’s goal contributions in a struggling side underscore his potential value to a Premier League team.
McKenna’s preference for a traditional number nine in his 4-2-3-1 formation aligns well with McBurnie’s profile, making the Scottish striker an attractive proposition on a free transfer. While Moore showcased his scoring prowess during his loan stint with Ipswich, McBurnie’s relative youth and Premier League pedigree offer long-term benefits. Both possess similar strengths, including a dominant presence upfront and aerial prowess, yet McBurnie’s superior performance at the Premier League level sets him apart. With minimal risks associated with his acquisition, Ipswich would be wise to seriously consider McBurnie as a valuable addition to their squad for the upcoming Premier League campaign.