Ipswich Town nears €3‑Million deal for Dutch keeper Kjell Scherpen

Ipswich Town is in advanced negotiations with Belgian side Union Sint‑Gillies to secure the services of 26‑year‑old Dutch goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen. The clubs are reportedly finalising a transfer fee in the region of several million euros, which would see the keeper return to England after two seasons in the Belgian league.

Scherpen, who split last season between Union and Austrian side Sturm Graz and featured in Champions League fixtures, brings valuable European experience to the Suffolk club. His recent exposure to top‑flight competition is seen as a key factor in Ipswich’s pursuit.

"He is the ideal successor to our current goalkeeper, with the experience and calmness needed for the Premier League," the Ipswich sport director said, highlighting the goalkeeper’s readiness to step into a first‑team role.

Union’s management confirmed that the two clubs have reached agreement on the financial terms and are now focusing on contractual details. "Both clubs have aligned on the financial conditions and are now working on the contract specifics," a Union representative stated.

The potential signing follows closely on the heels of another Dutch goalkeeper move, as Ipswich prepares to complete the acquisition of Kayne van Oevelen from FC Volendam. Van Oevelen is set to undergo his medical on Monday, with a reported fee of €4 million payable in three instalments.

If the Scherpen deal materialises, Ipswich will add a keeper who has already tasted European competition, a quality the club believes will bolster defensive stability. "Having played in the Champions League, he brings a level of confidence and leadership that is rare at this price point," the director added.

Union’s chairman underscored the financial upside for the Belgian side, noting that the transfer fee will provide a significant boost to the club’s budget. "The transfer fee will give us a substantial injection into our finances, allowing reinvestment in the squad and infrastructure," he explained.

Both parties expect to announce the agreement within the next few days, pending the completion of medical examinations and personal terms. The swift conclusion of the deal would signal Ipswich’s intent to strengthen the squad ahead of the upcoming season.

The move reinforces Ipswich’s ongoing strategy of tapping into the Dutch market for emerging talent, reflecting a broader ambition to enhance the team’s competitiveness before the new campaign begins.