Ipswich Town are tracking Fergie

Northern Irelands Shane
Ferguson could be on his
way to Ipswich Town. — Northern Irelands Shane Ferguson could be on his way to Ipswich Town.

Newcastle United’s Shane Ferguson could be a potential target for Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town.

The 22-year-old Eglinton lad, who played in Barry Molloy’s testimonial match against James McClean’s XI last month, experienced a disappointing stint on loan to Birmingham City last season and Newcastle could be ready to off-load the Northern Ireland international.

Ferguson is under contract for another two years with the Magpies but could be available for around the £1 million mark.

A loan deal could also be an option but, Ferguson is understood to prefer a permanent move should he end up leaving St James’ Park,

Meanwhile English Championship club, Derby County are reportedly interested in signing former Derry City winger James McClean from Wigan Athletic this summer.

The Rams, managed by former England boss, Steve McClaren, are considering testing Wigan’s resolve with a bid of around £1m.

It’s also understood Derby, who missed out on a return to the Premiership following a play-off defeat to QPR, are also willing to offer a player as part of the deal to bring the Republic of Ireland international to Pride Park.

If McClean joins his former Derry City teammate, Conor Sammon at Derby, he could be a replacement for Jamie Ward, who has been linked with a move away.