Two North London rivals, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, are now in the race to sign Ipswich Town striker Connor Wickham who is now considered as one of the biggest prospects in English football. Ipswich Town is also ready to offload their 17-year-old prodigy in their attempt to ease their financial crisis.
Connor Wickham was instrumental in England’s triumph in the U-17 World Cup 2010 last May. The Hereford-born striker scored two goals in the semi final win over France, before netting the winning goal against Spain in the final.
Ipswich Town is currently under a debt worth around £50 million and the Tractor Boys do not have enough transfer budget to bring in new players in their attempt to make a serious bid for promotion to Premier League next season.
Tottenham Hotspur has already had a £5 million bid rejected by Ipswich, but is now ready to pay £8 million and would allow the player to stay at Ipswich on loan next season.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has always been an admirer of Connor Wickham and is now ready to give a competition to Tottenham in his attempt to secure the striker’s service.
No doubt, it is a welcome situation for Ipswich Town who wants to make some quick cash in on their prized asset. On the other hand, the player may like to join Arsenal considering the club’s well-known expertise in nurturing young talents and bringing the best out of young players. Moreover, Wenger’s youth policy could also be enticing for Wickham.
Connor Wickham joined Ipswich Town youth team in 2006 from Reading youth side, and made his debut with Ipswich’s senior team in 2009. He played 28 league matches so far and netted 4 goals. With England U-17 team, Wickham has 9 goals in 13 appearances.
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