Ipswich Town are close to signing Burnley star Florentino Luis in a £17.1m deal, beating Hull City to the midfielder's signature. The 26-year-old made 31 top-flight appearances for Burnley last season, contributing two assists and averaging the most tackles per 90 of any Clarets player.
What happened?
According to Sky Sports reporter Luca Bendoni, Ipswich are closing in on an agreement with Burnley to sign Florentino Luis on a permanent transfer. Further talks are scheduled between the two clubs over a fee in the region of €20m (£17.1m), whereas Hull City were hoping to sign the midfielder on an initial loan with an option to buy.
Why it matters for Ipswich Town
Ipswich's eagerness to complete a permanent transfer straightaway appears to have put them in pole position. The Tractor Boys have been extremely productive behind the scenes, strengthening across the pitch with eight new signings, adding reinforcements in defence, attack, and in goal at a combined cost of more than £80m. However, one area that has remained untouched is in midfield. Florentino's arrival could provide the defensive platform needed to allow Ipswich's more attack-minded players to flourish.
What comes next?
If negotiations continue to progress, Florentino could become Ipswich's new midfield specialist alongside the likes of Azor Matusiwa and Marcelino Nunez, completing another vital piece of business ahead of the new Premier League season. The 26-year-old's Premier League experience last season and pedigree from his time with Benfica suggest he is ready to hit the ground running at Portman Road and improve further, as he is approaching his peak at the age of 26.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Championship, 84 pts, 23W-15D-8L from 46 games, recent form WDDWD. Goals this season: 80 scored, 47 conceded (+33 goal difference). Title race: 11 points behind leaders Coventry.
