Ipswich turn Kipre and Akpom loan moves permanent

Premier-League bound Ipswich Town have turned the loan moves of Cedric Kipre and Chuba Akpom, from Stade de Reims and Ajax respectively, into permanent transfers.

Centre-back Kipre, 29, made 32 appearances in the Championship this season, triggering a clause in his initial season-long deal from the French second-tier side, and moves to Portman Road for an undisclosed fee.

Forward Akpom, 30, played 29 times in the league, scoring twice, and completes his switch following similar appearances-related criteria.

Both players will finalise their deals on 1 July, with Akpom signing a three-year contract.

The length of Kipre's deal has not been announced.

"It feels brilliant to be officially part of this massive club after everything we have achieved together," Kipre said.

"I have loved being here since the first day I arrived. Everyone welcomed me so well and it didn't feel like I was on loan, so I'm delighted to become a permanent player.

"I can't wait for next season and it will mean a lot to represent this club in the Premier League. It's been my dream and I'm very, very happy."

The Tractor Boys sealed their immediate return to the top flight with their final-day victory over Queens Park Rangers to finish in the second automatic promotion spot, one point ahead of Millwall and 11 behind runaway champions Coventry City.