IPSWICH Town manager Paul Jewell admits Cheick Kourouma’s proposed move to Ipswich Town hangs in the balance.

The Blues boss wants to sign the 19-year-old French midfielder after he impressed during a lengthy trial over pre-season. However, the all-action youngster has seen the move hit by a combination of red-tape and a knee injury sustained in training.

“He is still injured,” said Jewell. “It has been really difficult for the kid. I don’t quite understand it but all the previous clubs have to write something to say they won’t be entitled to compensation.

“He is going back to France this weekend to try and get his situation sorted. I feel a bit sorry for him. He is a young player, wanting to do well here and desperate to get it sorted. But if it is not by August 31, I believe we can’t do anything.

“We are still keen to sign him. If we are not careful, we could sign him and then find we are libel for 100,000 Euros. We just don’t want to do that.”