IPSWICH Town will sign recent loanee Jay Tabb on a permanent two-year deal at the start of next month.

The 29-year-old midfielder – who showed tenacity and creativity in equal measure during his eight-game stint at Portman Road – will join as a free agent following his release by relegated Premier League side Reading.

“I really enjoyed my time at Ipswich and I’m delighted to sign permanently,” Tabb told the club website. “I’m pleased to get things sorted and I can’t wait to get going again.”

He leaves the Royals after clocking up almost 100 appearances, playing his part in helping the club win promotion to the Premier League after arriving at the Madejski Stadium from Coventry in 2009.

The EADT understands that Championship rivals Birmingham and Bolton also showed interest in the midfielder, who played on the left of midfield during his temporary stint at the Blues but could play a more central role next season.

Town now have three players set to sign permanently on July 1. Midfielder Cole Skuse will make a Bosman free transfer switch from Bristol City, a three-year deal having been agreed, while Nottingham Forest striker David McGoldrick – who scored four goals during his recent loan spell at Town – has agreed a two-year deal.