Ipswich Town are targeting former Sheffield United striker Conor Washington as they prepare to challenge for an immediate return to The Championship next season.

Washington was released by the Premier League bound side following the conclusion of their Championship campaign, having made just 16 appearances during a 12 month spell at Bramall Lane, having also found himself without a club after being released by QPR this time last season.

The Northern Ireland international may not be without a club for long however, after The Star reported that Ipswich are planning a move for Washington as they look to bounce back following their relegation to the third tier, after a dismal Championship campaign that saw them win just five games and score just 36 league goals, a tally which bettered only that of Bolton.

Manager Paul Lambert is reportedly keen on the 26-year-old, and he has been given permission to offer Washington an "attractive" wage package, with the club's proximity to Washington's family home in Cambridgeshire also expected to work in the Tractor Boys favour.

The verdict

This would be a good signing for Ipswich if they are able to make it happen.

Washington has plenty of experience in the second tier, so is likely to be more than capable of doing the business for Ipswich in League One.

With plans already in motion for Ipswich, it seems like the club are in a good position as they look to bid for that place back in the Championship.