Ipswich Town transfer news: Tractor Boys defender joins Championship club on loan until end of season

The 23-year-old has struggled for minutes in the Tractor Boys' side since they were promoted to the Premier League during the 2023-24 season.

Clarke has featured on just seven occasions in the top flight this term for Ipswich, starting only four matches and totalling 378 minutes of league action.

The defender played 39 times in the Championship for Kieran McKenna's side last term and will now be targeting back-to-back promotions from the second tier.

Since making the permanent switch from Arsenal during the winter window of 2023, Clarke has featured on 67 occasions for Ipswich, scoring one goal.

"Going for promotion" - Clarke discusses Blades loan

Clarke has secured a loan move to Bramall Lane for the remainder of the campaign, with there being no mention of an obligation or option to purchase the player in the summer.

Discussing the reasoning behind his loan switch and the challenge that awaits in Yorkshire, the defender said: "Where the boys are here, going for promotion, it was a no-brainer really.

"I've played here a few times and the atmosphere at Bramall Lane is incredible. I remember playing my last game with Stoke City here at Bramall Lane and the atmosphere before and during the game, it was tough being on the opposite side. I can't wait to be on the right side of it now.

"It's a tough league; anyone can beat anyone on their day. I know what it took last year so hopefully I can bring that experience. I am young but I've been there, so hopefully we can achieve something this year.

"I rang Kieffer Moore. He said he put in a good word with the boss. I spoke to Tyrese Campbell and he said it was great here and the lads were brilliant, so I can't wait to get going."

Where does Clarke fit at Bramall Lane?

Operating at right-back, Clarke will be in direct competition with another loanee, Chelsea's Alfie Gilchrist, for a spot on that side of Chris Wilder's back four.

There is also potential for the 23-year-old to play as a centre-back, providing cover for the likes of Anel Ahmedhodzic and Jack Robinson.

Sheffield United suffered a sobering three-goal defeat to Hull City in Yorkshire on Friday night, meaning that there could be a swift introduction to the starting XI for Ipswich loanee Clarke.

Written by

Carter White