Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna keen for former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe to remain at Portman Road

Kieran McKenna has expressed his desire to keep Axel Tuanzebe at Ipswich Town beyond the end of the current season.

The 27-year-old, who has made 17 Premier League appearances for the Tractor Boys this term, is due to become a free agent when his contract expires in June.

However, boss McKenna is keen to extend the defender’s stint at Portman Road into a third campaign.

Asked if he would be eager for the DR Congo international to commit to fresh terms, McKenna responded: “Definitely – Axel knows that. We think a lot of him.

“He’s been a very important player for us this season and last season. He’s built himself back up to a good level of form, robustness and he’s found a good home here.

“Of course we’re going to try and if that can be possible I think we’d all be really pleased. I think it’s a good place for Axel as well. Let’s see what the next few weeks bring.”

Tuanzebe has featured on 40 occasions for Ipswich across two seasons.