IPSWICH Town have refused to comment on strong reports linking Connor Wickham with a �13m move to Sunderland.

IPSWICH Town have refused to comment on strong reports linking Connor Wickham with a move to Sunderland.

However, it is understood that the Black Cats have lodged a �13m bid for Town’s 18-year-old striker – believed to be an initial �5m payment with numerous add-on clauses – and that talks are ongoing between both clubs.

Wearsiders boss Steve Bruce is a big fan of Wickham and seems intent on bringing the England Under-21 international to the Stadium of Light for the new season following the big-money sales of Darren Bent and Jordan Henderson over the last 12 months.

Town would not confirm that Wickham talks were ongoing this morning, but tellingly they did not deny it either.

The chances are, then, that Wickham will be leaving Portman Road this summer.