Ipswich Town have looked to strengthen their squad position by announcing new contracts for Christian Walton and Wes Burns.
The pair have been key in the East Anglian side pushing from League One to the Premier League over the past few years.
Burns first moved to Portman Road in 2021, joining from Fleetwood Town, and has been a star in the side ever since.
As for Walton, the goalkeeper also joined in 2021 on an initial loan deal from Brighton and Hove Albion before he made the switch permanent in 2022.
The shot-stopper has had competition in recent years though as Vaclav Hladky was first-choice during the promotion-winning campaign, while this summer saw Ipswich sign Aro Muric.
With new contracts secured, Kieran McKenna’s side may be able to concentrate on their next steps in the squad and the market.
Wes Burns and Christian Walton discuss new contracts
Both Burns and Walton have signed new contracts that will keep them at Ipswich until the summer of 2026.
It helps reward the players for their part in the club’s rapid rise to the top while adding some security over the squad situation.
On the decision to sign a new deal, Burns told the official club website: “This has been an amazing club for me, I’ve enjoyed my time here both as a person and as a player.
“When I signed three years ago I probably didn’t expect us to be where we are today, but it’s been an incredible journey.
“This is one of the best groups I could ever wish to work with. There is a real togetherness here and I am delighted to have signed a new deal.”
Walton, who featured against Liverpool in the opening weekend of the Premier League season, echoed similar sentiments.
“I’m delighted to have extended my contract with the club,” Walton told the official club website.
“I’ve loved my time here since signing on loan in 2021 and to have been part of the journey to the Premier League, winning back-to-back promotions with a brilliant group of players, has been really special.
“Making my Premier League debut against Liverpool on the opening day of the season was a proud day for me and I am pleased to have committed my future to the club further.”
It remains to be seen how much either will play over the next few months as the Tractor Boys look to avoid relegation back to the Championship.
Ipswich Town contracts expiring in 2025
So with Burns and Walton now extending their stays at Ipswich, attention will naturally turn toward the next players who could earn a new deal.
The current squad players at Ipswich who are out of contract in 2025 are:
- Leif Davis
- Axel Tuanzebe
- Luke Woolfenden
- Cameron Burgess
- Massimo Luongo
All of Leif Davis, Axel Tuanzebe, Luke Woolfenden and Cameron Burgess have the option of an extra year in their contracts, which will ease some of the tension over agreeing new deals.
However, Davis is likely to be the biggest priority, given just how important he has been to the way the team play.
It remains to be seen whether any of the other four expiring contracts will be renewed in the weeks and months ahead.
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