Roy Keane could face competition for Sunderland defender Paul McShane.

According to reports, the Ipswich Town boss is chasing the Republic of Ireland international, who he managed during his time at the Stadium of Light.

However, Hull City are also keen on McShane and it may be that the defender favours a move to the Tigers due to their Barclays Premier League status.

Keane has also been linked with McShane’s Sunderland team-mate Daryl Murphy.

Another new transfer whisper has suggested Keane could be interested in his former Manchester United team-mate Quinton Fortune.

The 32-year-old former South Africa international spent most of last season playing for Belgian club AFC Tubize.

Fortune is also reported to be set for a trial with Birmingham City, having spent time at Sheffield United last autumn before a short spell at Italian Serie B outfit Brescia.

Tickets are now on sale for Ipswich’s trip to FC Clacton on Thursday, July 23.

The Blues have promised to send a reserve side to the Rush Green Bowl in a testimonial for Seasiders skipper Paul Hillier. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for OAPs and under-16s and are available by ringing 07969 108530.

Former Town defender Tony Mowbray should be confirmed as Celtic’s new manager inside the next 24 hours. The Glasgow giants hope to finalise the deal by midweek.

Celtic have agreed to pay the £2m in compensation demanded by West Bromwich Albion, after the Baggies gave them permission to speak to Mowbray on Saturday.

Now they are trying to sort out deals for assistant Mark Venus – who also played for Town and lived in Dedham during his time at Portman Road – and coach Peter Grant.