Ipswich complete club-record deal for former loan star Omari Hutchinson

Ipswich Town have finalized club-record signing of Omari Hutchinson from Chelsea for £22.5 million, the highest the club have ever signed a player.

The 20-year-old winger, who was instrumental in Ipswich’s promotion to the Premier League during his loan spell, has now committed to the club permanently with a five-year contract.

Hutchinson, who joined Chelsea from Arsenal’s academy in 2022, scored ten goals and provided six assists in 44 Championship matches last season.

Ipswich fans are said to have pressured the club to sign the player on permanent deal, especially after the club received substantial investment from an American firm in March.

The transfer surpasses Ipswich’s previous record of £4.75 million, set 23 years ago with the signing of Matteo Sereni from Sampdoria.

While Chelsea retains a sell-on clause, there is no buy-back option in the deal.

Expressing delight in the player, Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna said, “We’re so pleased to bring Omari back on a permanent basis.

“His growth and development last season were evident, and he played a significant role in our success.”