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Ipswich Town are reported to have reached an agreement with Strasbourg for a second player this transfer window, a versatile full-back or midfielder, Abdoul Ouattara, as Gary O’Neil strengthens his squad ahead of the Premier League season. Following yesterday’s news of former loanee Julio Enciso coming back to Portman Road, the French outlet FootMercato.net now claims that Enciso’s teammate Ouattara is set to join him in Suffolk, with clubs and the player all having accepted terms. The fee is understood to be an initial £14 million, with a further £3 million in add-ons O’Neil Turns to Familiar Ground in Ligue 1 This deal marks another move involving Strasbourg, the club that O’Neil managed at the end of last season. Talks between the sides have been smooth, with O’Neil’s familiarity with the player and the club helping to accelerate the negotiations. Ouattara, 20, is viewed as a high-upside addition who can contribute immediately while still developing. His versatility, having played in midfield, right back and even at left back, makes him an attractive option for Ipswich’s evolving squad. A Rapid Rise Through Strasbourg’s System He joined Strasbourg’s academy at 13 after moving to France from Côte d’Ivoire aged 10. He progressed very quickly, entering the senior squad at just 16 in 2021 before breaking into the first team during the 2024/25 campaign. Last season he made further strides, scoring 2 in Ligue 1 and impressing with his adaptability. Although naturally a midfielder, he was frequently deployed at right-back and finished the campaign on the left, showcasing that tactical flexibility and athletic profile. A Signing for Now and the Future Given his current age, he will not count towards the 25-man Premier League squad limit this season, offering Town valuable depth without restricting senior registration spots. His arrival alongside Enciso signals a clear intent from O’Neil to build a younger, more dynamic squad.