According to Carlton Palmer, losing Leif Davis to West Ham would be a “massive blow” for Ipswich, and the club should reject any offers unless they are difficult to refuse.
On 22 January, the former England midfielder told Football League World that while a move to the London Stadium would be a “exciting opportunity” for the former Leeds United defender, he is crucial to Kieran McKenna’s side’s push for straight promotions.
The Irons are reportedly looking to sign a left-back before the January transfer deadline, but Palmer believes Davis, 24, should wait until the summer to decide his future move.
Palmer stated, “It is reported that West Ham have prioritised the signing of Leif Davis from Ipswich.” This would be a huge setback for Ipswich in their bid for back-to-back promotions.
“Davis is an important player for Ipswich with good stats, and any potential move for Davis should be postponed until the summer to avoid disturbance in the squad.
“However, West Ham are looking to improve their left-back alternatives before the winter market ends.
“Moving to West Ham would be a wonderful chance for Davis, but gaining back-to-back promotions with Ipswich must be exhilarating as well, making history, and then re-evaluating his future in the summer.
“It would be unlikely he’d be going straight into the first team for West Ham, so unless it’s an offer the club and player can’t refuse, Ipswich should resist all offers from West Ham and anyone else for Davis’ services.”
Davis may have scored an own goal in the Championship’s top two battle on Monday (22 January) as Ipswich drew with Leicester, but he has otherwise played a significant role in Ipswich’s continued pursuit of League One promotion from last season.
After providing 14 assists in the third tier last season, he has already provided 12 in the second this season, making him an intriguing attacking option for West Ham to finally sign a left-back after months of searching.
Emerson is now the regular starter, but Aaron Cresswell has been linked to a move for several transfer windows without being able to go.
It stands to reason that Ipswich would not want to lose any key players in the middle of a historic season, so any offer would have to be substantial.
Davis has 18 months left on his contract with a club option for another year, so it won’t be cheap, and with the majority of the attention on a loan deal for Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City and attacking additions, it may have to wait until the summer.
In other West Ham news, the club hopes to complete a major January signing before midweek following a breakthrough.
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