IPSWICH Town manager Paul Jewell has assured supporters that he will be targeting loan moves with a view to permanent buys after tonight’s transfer deadline passes.

The Blues boss doesn’t expect to sign any more players on permanent deals before tonight’s 11pm deadline, but Football League clubs will then be able to make loan signings a week later with a number of Premier League fringe players set to become available.

“It will be loans with a view to buy,” said Jewell, when asked whether fans would take to a side filled with temporary additions. “That’s the ideal situation that we are looking for.

“There are a couple of players I am chasing we could have possibly taken yesterday if their team had brought a replacement in.

“The scenario we’re looking at is that we sort out a loan and agree a price for January.

“Loan players are fine, but we want to build for the future. We want youngish players if possible and, without sounding like a broken record, the window does open again next week.

“I spoke to five Premier League managers yesterday about players – not just centre-halves, but all sorts of players who might become available next week.”

The Green’Un understands that the Blues have renewed their interest in Leicester City centre-back Sean St ledger. The Republic of Ireland international almost joined the club in January before an injury crisis at the Foxes saw a deal fall through.

Asked about the player, a coy Jewell said: “Listen, if I told you every conversation I’ve had on the phone this week it would be a long old press conference.

“We’re looking to strengthen at centre-half. Not just there either. We need to strengthen all around, whether that be midfield or up front.”