Latest signing tells Ipswich Town supporters what to expect from him after Arsenal move | OneFootball

Ipswich Town have signed Arsenal defender Harry Clarke on a three and half year deal, with the youngster delighted to be rejoining his boyhood club.

Clarke joins Ipswich for a reported seven-figure fee with the defender rejoining the Tractor Boys after he first departed the club when he was 14.

He pens a three-and-a-half year deal at Portman Road, the club having the option to extend that by a further 12 months, while becoming the fourth addition to Kieran McKenna’s squad.

This follows the arrivals of midfielder Massimo Luongo, striker George Hirst and forward Nathan Broadhead. The 21-year-old was on loan at Stoke City this season, making 18 appearances and scoring two goals.

Speaking to club media following his return to East Anglia, Clarke said: “Part of it [rejoining] was obviously coming home.

“The manager mentioned that in recent history there have not been many promotions so to be a homegrown player at my boyhood club and potentially get one was a big part of it.

“Also, there’s the trajectory of the Club with the new owners and the manager. The style of play has been amazing this year so to come and be part of that is another main reason.”

It’s a signing that has come as a surprise to many, with Arsenal having to recall Clarke from Stoke to allow the youngster the chance to join the League One side.

It seems it was an easy decision for Clarke to make though, who can’t wait to get going in an Ipswich shirt. When asked what fans can expect of him, he simply said: “The fans can expect passion. That’s a given even if I wasn’t at Ipswich.

“No matter what club I’m at, I give everything on the pitch. I’m good on the ball, I’m quick and powerful. I’m good at defending and I’ll hopefully get the odd goal as well.”

Ipswich will hope Clarke can make an immediate impact as they look close the gap to Sheffield Wednesday in the automatics.

It’s an intriguing signing as the club start continue their strengthening process.

Given the level of backing McKenna has had this season, they will be hoping to avoid the playoffs and this latest signing proves that.

Clarke has shown glimpses of quality this season in a poor Stoke team, being a solid player defensively which will be a key aspect for the Tractor Boys as the season progresses.