Ipswich Town have moved ahead of Blackburn Rovers in the race to sign Bristol Rovers striker Ellis Harrison, reports Alan Nixon of the Sun. 

Harrison played no part in the Gas' preseason loss to Forest Green Rovers amid rumours reported by the Bristol Post that Blackburn and Ipswich both wanted to sign him.

Now, Nixon has added more to the story by revealing that Ipswich have began to move ahead with the deal.

The 24-year-old scored an impressive 14 goals and assisted five more in 45 games last season, bringing him to the attention of many clubs.

Both Rovers and the Tractor Boys are in need of firepower up front this season.

Tony Mowbray has just Danny Graham or Dominic Samuel to choose from next year whilst Paul Hurst has the much sought after Martyn Waghorn and out of sorts Joe Garner.

The verdict 

Harrison would be a decent signing for either club, but would probably not be the man to fire either side up the table.

Whilst 14 goals last season was a good return, you would not necessarily bank on him recreating that form in the Championship next season.

But you never know, and if Ipswich can get him at a good price it could be a good bit of business.