Ipswich Town's bid to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios has been rejected, according to reports. The German side is said to be seeking €35m for the 27-year-old, who has won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and reached the final again this year. Palacios has reportedly expressed a desire to join a 'bigger club', with four other clubs, including Premier League and Bundesliga teams, said to be interested in his services. The 41-cap international has been a key player for Leverkusen, featuring 18 times in the German top flight last season and contributing one assist.
What happened?
Ipswich Town's bid to sign Exequiel Palacios has been rejected by Bayer Leverkusen.
Why it matters for Ipswich Town
The rejection of Ipswich Town's bid for Palacios is a significant blow to the club's transfer ambitions. The midfielder's reported desire to join a 'bigger club' suggests that he may be open to a move to a Premier League team, potentially creating an opportunity for Ipswich Town to sign him in the future.
What comes next?
Ipswich Town will need to regroup and reassess their transfer strategy, potentially targeting other midfielders who may be available in the market. The club's recent form has been impressive, with a 2nd place finish in the Championship last season and 80 goals scored so far this campaign. However, the loss of Palacios could be a significant setback for the team's title ambitions.
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.
