Ipswich Town smash club record fee with Omari Hutchinson signing from Chelsea as Ben Johnson closes in on move from West Ham

Ipswich Town have completed the permanent signing of last season’s loan star Omari Hutchinson on a five-year deal from Chelsea for a new club record fee.

The 20-year-old scored 10 goals and contributed five assists during the Blues’ promotion-winning campaign from the Sky Bet Championship last term and has returned to Portman Road in a package deal reported to be worth £22m.

Hutchinson, who made 50 appearances in all competitions under boss Kieran McKenna last season, earned the club’s Young Player of the Year award following a stellar campaign, and his move has smashed the club’s record transfer fee – which was £4.8 million paid to Italian side Sampdoria for goalkeeper Matteo Sereni in the summer of 2001.

“We’re so pleased to bring Omari back on a permanent basis,” McKenna told the club’s website.

“Omari is someone we all enjoyed working with last season and the staff, his teammates and supporters all saw how he grew and developed over the course of the year, which is testament to the hard work he put in.

“The impact he had on the team throughout the season, especially in the latter part, was evidence of that and he, like so many of his teammates, played a significant part in that success for the Club.

“We think Omari is a fantastic player and person to have at the Club for the long-term future. He has a hunger to improve and show that he can compete and thrive in the Premier League.”

It has also been reported this morning (Monday) by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano that defender Ben Johnson has completed a medical at Town, and his move from fellow Premier League side West Ham is expected to be announced soon.