Ipswich Town left-back Aaron Cresswell has completed his big-money switch to Premier League outfit West Ham United.

The 24-year-old will cost more than £3m, signing a five-year deal, and will join Sam Allardyce’s men in time for their training camp in France.

The Liverpudlian’s former team, Tranmere Rovers, will also receive a cash windfall with the League Two club set to pocket a 20% sell-on fee, having sold the highly-rated defender for an initial £240,000 three summers ago.

Cresswell was a virtual ever-present during his three seasons in Suffolk, scoring seven goals in 138 appearances, and became a big fans’ favourite for his attacking play, amassing 23 Championship assists after being signed by Paul Jewell.

However, Town boss Mick McCarthy admitted on Monday that he would find it hard to stand in Cresswell’s way, should a suitable offer be tabled.

While his exit represents a blow, it could prove to be a blessing in disguise and McCarthy’s modest transfer budget could be increased by owner Marcus Evans.

The move could also open the door for former Chippenham defender Tyrone Mings to stake a claim for a regular spot at left-back, the 21-year-old having never looked out of place when deputising for Cresswell.

Ironically, Cresswell could be set to make a swift return to Portman Road, with his new club set to provide the opposition in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday, July 16 (7.45pm KO).

“I would like to put on record my sincere thanks to the owner, manager and fans at Ipswich for their fantastic support over the past three years,” Cresswell told the Town website.

“I’m sad to be leaving Ipswich Town as I’ve built up a great relationship with everyone at the club, however it’s a huge opportunity to play in the Premier League and ‎a challenge I’m looking forward to taking up.

“The manager and players have been brilliant with me and I genuinely wish them and the club every success for the season ahead. I’ll be keeping an eye on their results.

“I look forward to seeing some familiar faces in July ‎when West Ham play at Portman Road during pre-season.”

Meanwhile, the Blues’ trip to Nottingham Forest in the Championship has been moved from Saturday October 4 to Sunday October 5, the kick-off staying at 3pm.

Notts County are also due to play at home on the Saturday.