Ipswich Town are in a two-horse race with Championship rivals Fulham to sign free agent Ben Pringle.

The 26-year-old midfielder has elected to move on from Rotherham United, for whom he impressed against Ipswich on two occasions last season, and is currently considering his options.

Fulham, managed by Kit Symons, below, who are looking to rebuild after a disappointing first season back in the second tier, are believed to be the Blues’ main rivals for the Newcastle-born schemer’s signature with fellow Championship outfit Bolton having cooled their interest in the former Derby County man.

Pringle, who made 168 league and cup appearances for the Millers, scoring 22 goals, is thought to favour a stay in the north, but wouldn’t rule out a switch to Town, who are also considering a move for ex-Millwall right-back Alan Dunne.

Pringle was part of Steve Evans’ squad that won back-to-back promotions, resulting in a return to the Championship for the first time in nine years.

The former West Brom youth player started his professional career at Derby after being plucked from non-league Ilkeston.

However, after just four league starts for the Rams and a short loan spell at Torquay, the 5ft 8ins midfielder moved to South Yorkshire and quickly became a fans’ favourite.