
Ipswich Town have announced their retained squad list following their Premier League relegation. Alex Jones breaks down the key takeaways.
Ipswich Town’s Retained List: Key Takeaways After Premier League Relegation
Two Emotional Goodbyes
Massimo Luongo’s departure was expected, and fans had the chance to bid him farewell in the final match against West Ham. A true professional on and off the pitch, his exit marks the end of an important chapter.
However, Marcus Harness’s exit comes as more of a surprise. Signed ahead of Ipswich’s League One promotion campaign, he played a role in their Championship ascent and even featured in the Premier League. Though not always a regular, his commitment made him a fan favorite. The club chose not to trigger his one-year extension, allowing him to leave as a free agent—a respectful move for a player who gave his all. Where next? A return to Derby County, where he impressed on loan, could be an option.
Ongoing Contract Talks
Cameron Burgess and Axel Tuanzebe remain in limbo, with their contracts expiring. Burgess, now behind Jacob Greaves in the pecking order, has attracted interest from Rangers and Girona. Tuanzebe, when fit, proved his quality in both the Championship and Premier League, meaning suitors will circle. While Ipswich hope to retain both, the reality is they may seek new challenges.
Loanees Return, Baggott’s Future Unclear
The four loanees have returned to their parent clubs, with no immediate clarity on potential returns. Elkan Baggott, who spent last season at Blackpool, had his contract extended by a year. At 22, he needs regular football—likely another League One loan—but could also be sold for a fee.
Most of the squad remains under contract, though 10 players enter their final year, including key figures like Sam Morsy, Conor Chaplin, and Nathan Broadhead. The club holds extension options for Harry Clarke and Cameron Humphreys, but decisions loom for others.
Final Verdict
Luongo and Harness’s exits sting, but allowing them to leave freely is the right call. Burgess and Tuanzebe’s futures remain uncertain, while Baggott’s extension buys time. The core squad is intact, providing stability—now, Ipswich must act decisively on renewals to build for a Championship return.
Released: Massimo Luongo, Marcus Harness
Loans Expired: Ben Godfrey, Kalvin Phillips, Jens Cajuste, Julio Enciso
Extension Triggered: Elkan Baggott
In Talks: Axel Tuanzebe, Cameron Burgess
Under Contract (Key Expiry Years):
2026: Walton, Clarke*, Townsend, Morsy, Taylor, Humphreys*, Burns, Chaplin, Broadhead
2027: Woolfenden*, Hirst
2028+: Davis, Greaves, Hutchinson, Philogene, Al-Hamadi
(*12-month option available)
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