Ipswich Town have reached an agreement with BlueCo regarding the appointment of Gary O’Neil as their new manager, according to TEAMtalk. The former Bournemouth and Wolves boss is nearing a return to English football after a short spell in France.
The Tractor Boys have been searching for a new manager since Kieran McKenna departed earlier this summer, and sources indicate O’Neil has emerged as the club’s preferred candidate. An agreement has now been reached with BlueCo, the ownership group of Strasbourg, paving the way for O’Neil to take charge at Portman Road.
O’Neil arrived at Strasbourg in January, replacing Liam Rosenior, but his time in Ligue 1 appears to be coming to an end. Sources suggest he was keen to return to England, and the opportunity at Ipswich proved too appealing to resist.
The 43-year-old has significantly enhanced his managerial reputation in recent years, initially impressing during his time at Bournemouth before moving to Wolves. Despite his spell at Molineux ultimately concluding, O’Neil remains highly regarded within the footballing community, and his work at Strasbourg has further solidified that standing.
Ipswich’s hierarchy conducted an extensive search following McKenna’s departure, speaking with numerous candidates to find the right fit for their long-term project. However, TEAMtalk reports that O’Neil quickly became the leading contender.
The club believes his Premier League experience, tactical flexibility, and proven ability to improve players make him an ideal candidate to lead the next phase of Ipswich’s development. Negotiations have progressed rapidly in recent days, and terms between Ipswich and BlueCo have been agreed.
Attention is now focused on finalizing the details of O’Neil’s contract, but there is growing confidence that the move will be completed imminently. BlueCo’s decision reflects a strong relationship between all parties and an understanding of O’Neil’s desire to return to English football. Ipswich, meanwhile, are set to secure one of the most sought-after coaches currently available.
TEAMtalk understands the Suffolk club wanted to resolve their managerial situation quickly ahead of a crucial summer transfer window, and barring any unforeseen complications, O’Neil is poised to succeed McKenna.
