10:16am Tuesday 23rd June 2009
By Matt Plummer
Roy Keane is targeting quality rather than quantity as he continues to shape his Ipswich Town squad.
The Blues boss plans to make four signings in order to turn the side into title contenders next season.
Keane says the club are making progress in terms of potential recruits but has dismissed suggestions he is planning wholesale changes.
He said: “These things take time and we need to be patient.
“It’s an awkward time in that so many people in the game are away on holiday or tied up on other matters, but we’re moving forward.
“We’re not going to bring in seven or eight players to the club, anyway.
“We’re looking at maybe four additions and the owner and chief executive are working hard to try and achieve that but it takes time.
“It’s a case of quality rather than quantity.
“I’ll be happy if I get the four players I want but it’s a big if and we’re certainly not going to spend over what we consider to be the right valuation for the players.”
Meanwhile, Reggie Lambe will sign his first professional contract with the club when he returns for pre-season training next week.
The 18-year-old has vowed to force his way into Ipswich’s first team and impress Keane.
“I’ve not signed the contract yet but will do when I return to England for pre-season training,” said midfielder Lambe, who recently played for Bermuda under-23s against Crystal Palace Baltimore.
“We still need to discuss how long the contract will be and my salary.
“It’s good that we've got a new manager and he knows how to take care of his players.”
Released Town defender Chris Casement has joined Dundee.
The 21-year-old Northern Irishman, who made seven first-team starts and seven substitute appearance, has penned a three-year deal at Dens Park.
In terms of transfer whispers, Town have been linked with Manchester City left-back Michael Ball.
The former England international is out of contract and has not been offered new terms by boss Mark Hughes.
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