Latest developments
- Ipswich Town want to sign Nemanja Matic from Lyon.
- The Tractor Boys want the Serbian to boost their survival chances.
- The 36-year-old has played 19 times this season.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Widely reported story gets boost
Ipswich are set to make the shock signing of former Premier League winner Nemanja Matic, as they look to stave off an immediate return to the Championship.
This story has been widely reported this week, and former Man Utd scout Mick Brown certainly didn't rubbish the rumour when speaking to footballinsider247.com.
Value (4/5): Cheap and still going strong
The three-time Premier League winner has no doubt had a glittering career and is still capable of playing every week, judging by his regular minutes for Lyon in Ligue 1.
Arriving from Rennes for £2.2 million in the summer, Lyon will likely want at least the same amount to part with the Serbian six months into a two-year deal, but it's peanuts compared to the average Premier League transfer.
Suitability (2.5/5): Still capable in the PL?
The Tractor Boys need to get their recruitment right in January to finish 17th or better on their first top-flight season since 2002.
Matic was world-class in his position while at Chelsea, but it is a real coin toss as to whether he can still command a Premier League midfield two-and-a-half years after leaving Old Trafford.
Upgrade? (3/5): Cajuste impressing
He scored against lowly Bristol Rovers at the weekend, but Kalvin Phillips' struggle to regain his best form continues.
Matic could have more trouble trying to usurp Ipswich's other defensive midfielder, Jens Cajuste, the Napoli loanee who has been a key part of Kieran McKenna's side.
Logic (2.5/5): Why and why not?
What incentive is there for Matic to sully his reputation in England with a potential relegation on his CV? Seemingly enjoying life in Lyon, would Suffolk be a more appealing location?
For Ipswich, a high-profile signing will do a lot to boost morale at the very least, so why not take a chance for a couple of million pounds?
Whisper+ verdict: 15/25
It would be something of a gamble, but given the backing from the scout, it looks to be a gamble Ipswich are willing to take.
