IPSWICH Town manager Jim Magilton last night revealed his hopes of forming strong links with European champions Manchester United.

Elvin King

By Elvin King

IPSWICH Town manager Jim Magilton last night revealed his hopes of forming strong links with European champions Manchester United.

The Blues boss if hoping that the loaning of Reds defender Danny Simpson at the end of last season proves to be the start of a flourishing relationship between the mighty Old Trafford-based club and ambitious Town.

Magilton still harbours hopes of Simpson, 21, joining Ipswich on loan for the whole of 2008/09 although it might be close to kick-off time before the possibility of this will be known.

But if not the Blues supremo is hoping his new-found association with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will lead to other promising Reds youngsters finding their way to Portman Road.

“I understand that Danny has gone back to Manchester and painted a very good picture of us,” said Magilton.

“Sir Alex was helpful in letting Danny join us, and this might lead to him allowing other players to follow suit.

“Danny sees himself as a Manchester United player and his manager speaks very highly of him.

“But if there is a chance to bring him back on loan I will explore the situation fully.”

Simpson has a three-year contract at Old Trafford and is set to go on United's pre-season tour.

But getting a coveted regular place in Ferguson's team is easier said than done and if Simpson is made available for loan after United's tour then Ipswich will be ready to pounce.

Ferguson is not against loaning out youngsters for a season to gain experience, and Simpson cannot be ruled out of the Ipswich equation as Magilton looks to improve the strength of his defensive staff.

Ipswich are still keeping tabs on Cardiff City central defender Roger Johnson after having a reported £1million bid rejected earlier this month.

Magilton was told by Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale that it would take a £3m offer for the Welsh club to part with the giant defender.

However, Magilton feels there could be a deal to be done for the 25-year-old, who has just 12 months left to run on his contract at Ninian Park.

elvin.king@archant.co.uk