Double blow for Monk on keeper front
BLUES have been dealt two setbacks on the goalkeeper front on the same day after Ipswich confirmed Bartosz Bialkowski had signed a new long-term deal at Portman Road.
The 31-year-old, who has not long returned from the World Cup where he was part of Poland’s squad, has agreed fresh terms after new manager Paul Hurst persuaded him to stay.
It’s a blow for Blues boss Garry Monk, who had held an interest in Bialkowski as he looks to recruit a new No.1.
Bialkowski has signed a new three-year contract, with the option of a fourth, which means Blues will be forced to look elsewhere having had a bid rejected.
“We did receive bids for Bart but they were rejected very quickly,” said Tractor Boys’ owner Marcus Evans. “It was always my intention to try to keep him. Bart made it clear he wanted to stay as well but it was important to reach an agreement that was right for all parties.
“I’m delighted and I’m sure the supporters are as well.’’
Monk left both existing senior Blues keepers, David Stockdale and Tomasz Kuszczak, at home when the squad headed for Austria to continue pre-season preparations last week.
Stockdale had been targeted by his hometown club Leeds, but after failing to come to an arrangement with Blues the Whites have turned elsewhere.
They have confirmed the capture of Chelsea youngster Jamal Blackman on a seasonlong loan.
These developments have left Blues with two keepers they’re looking to move on and are now being forced to visit other stoppers after missing out on their primary target.