Exclusive: Ipswich ‘Confident’ of Keeping £35m Star After Delap Departure
Ipswich Town have been handed a significant boost in their hopes of being able to seal an immediate return to the Premier League as it is expected that Omari Hutchinson will remain at Portman Road instead of embarking on a fresh challenge during the summer transfer window, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.
The Tractor Boys have already seen Liam Delap head through the exit door since suffering relegation, with the striker completing a £30million switch to Chelsea after the release clause within his contract was triggered, and boss Kieran McKenna is desperate to avoid a situation where his squad is decimated.
Hutchinson has earned a call-up to the England under-21 side for the fast-approaching European Championships and, after competing in the tournament in Slovakia, is poised to return to Ipswich instead of taking his career in another direction as plans are made for another promotion push.
The turning point, it seems, was Delap’s move to Southampton. Though the young striker had grown into a fan favourite, Ipswich viewed his departure as a necessary decision to re-balance the squad and reinforce other areas. More importantly, it gave the club room—both financially and tactically—to double down on keeping Hutchinson as their creative focal point.
“It’s no secret there’s been a lot of interest in Omari,” said a senior club figure who asked not to be named. “But we’re not in a rush to sell. If anything, we’re in a strong position. The Delap deal has given us flexibility, and there’s a clear plan to build the team around Omari next season.”
Manager Kieran McKenna has also played a crucial role in persuading Hutchinson to stay, reportedly holding several personal meetings with the young winger over the past fortnight. McKenna is said to have assured Hutchinson that he will be central to the club’s attacking strategy moving forward, particularly with Ipswich targeting another promotion push.
Hutchinson’s development since arriving from Chelsea has been remarkable. He finished last season with 9 goals and 11 assists, often unlocking games that seemed destined for draws. His flair and fearlessness in one-on-one situations make him a unique asset—one the club is determined not to lose easily.
While transfer windows are always unpredictable, Ipswich are banking on stability and ambition to retain their brightest talent. They’ve also opened discussions about a new contract, which would include a performance-related pay bump and potentially a release clause that protects both player and club.
