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Ipswich Town’s pursuit of Argentinian midfielder Exequiel Palacios has hit an early stumbling block with the Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen rejecting a €20 million (£17 million) offer that falls well short of their valuation of him. The bid was lodged over the weekend as Town ramp up their interest in the World Cup winner, but it has been dismissed. It was also reported from Argentina on Tuesday that confirmed the offer was rejected, with Leverkusen initially said to want €35 million (£29.9 million) but later the German coverage pushed that valuation higher, claiming that they want €40 million (£34.2 million). Sky Germany has since stated that Ipswich’s £17 million proposal was dismissed as “far too low”, prompting negotiations to be put on hold until a more substantial bid arrives. As things stand, Ipswich are unlikely to push towards Leverkusen’s reported €35–40 million valuation, leaving the deal at a standstill unless circumstances change. Player Keen on Premier League Switch Despite this stance from Leverkusen, the situation remains open. It’s now claimed Palacios is keen on a move to the Premier League and has communicated that to the Bundesliga club. This marks a shift from reports suggesting that he wasn’t interested in joining Ipswich and would only consider a move to a “bigger club” if he were to come to England. Bundesliga side RB Leipzig are also believed to be interested should Town decide to return with an improved offer. World Cup Winner With Major Experience He has been capped 41 times by Argentina and was part of both squads in the 2022 & 26 World Cups. His club career is equally strong, with 130 starts and 55 substitute appearances for Leverkusen, including 17 Champions League appearances, and he helped them win the 2023/24 title in the Bundesliga. He is contracted until 2030, giving that leverage to Leverkusen, but an adductor injury restricted him to 12 starts last year. But both his pedigree and experience remain unquestioned.