Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy is ready to hit the transfer market and spend a seven-figure fee after it emerged that midfielder Luke Hyam, inset, is set for a four-month spell on the sidelines following a fresh injury setback.

The 23-year-old was forced to fly home from the club’s pre-season training camp in Ireland earlier this week and underwent surgery on his knee yesterday morning. It’s a bitter blow for the Ipswich-born academy graduate, who had only just returned to action following a frustrating campaign which saw him sidelined more often than not.

The EADT understands that owner Marcus Evans – who recently received £8m for left-back Tyrone Mings from Bournemouth – has given McCarthy the green light to spend a seven-figure fee on a midfielder, with the Blues boss breaking away from training several times yesterday to talk on the phone.

“Sadly, we’ve lost Luke Hyam through injury,” revealed McCarthy. “He’s rehabbed twice now but has suffered another setback. He’s just had surgery this morning.

“He could be three-and-a-half to four months out, which takes us through to Christmas. You’d be disappointed for anybody, but for such a conscientious, hard-working pro like Luke it breaks your heart. He was really upset leaving here Wednesday evening.

“We missed his energy and dynamic style of play at times last season, the way he breaks things up for us. We want him back and wish him a speedy recovery.”

McCarthy selected 23 players to travel to Carton House, Dublin last weekend, with the team set to face Irish side Shelbourne this afternoon (3pm) in their first warm-up game for the 2015/16 campaign.

New recruits Brett Pitman, Ryan Fraser and Ainsley Maitland-Niles are set to be involved, though key trio Daryl Murphy, David McGoldrick and Christophe Berra have been given an extended break following their recent international exploits.

Out-of-favour winger Cameron Stewart was left behind, while youngsters Josh Emmanuel, Miles Kenlock, Matt Clarke, Kyle Hammond, Dylan Connolly and Adam McDonnell – the latter two signed from Shelbourne last season – have all been given a chance to impress.

“I’m still looking to add to the squad,” said McCarthy, who remained coy on potential targets.

“The squad is looking good though. The lads have come back really fit and they’ve all been training really well. They’re all keen and they all want to play. You’ll have seen today that a few tackles were flying in.

“I’ve been impressed with the young lads this week – they look ready for this season.”

It’s understood that powerful 31-year-old Birmingham City striker Clayton Donaldson is on a list of potential Town targets, but a move would only be made if wanted man Murphy – believed to be valued at £5m – was to be sold.

Is Town’s style of play about to change? Find out in today’s EADT