THE identity of the Blues’ new number one next season remains very much a mystery after two of the top targets among supporters admitted they had not been contacted about a move to Portman Road.

We can reveal that Watford keeper and massive Town fan Scott Loach has had no approach from Ipswich – news that will disappoint supporters who want the 24-year-old to sign for his beloved club.

And free agent Tom Heaton, who performed heroics in helping Cardiff City to last season’s Carling Cup final, is also currently off the radar as he weighs up where to play his football next season.

Even though Blues boss Paul Jewell is right to keep his cards close to his chest, and he could still make a sudden move for Loach or Heaton, the news will add to the concern among Town fans just a week before the squad reports back for official pre-season training.

The apparent silence surrounding Loach will particularly disappoint Town fans given the fact the former academy keeper has previously said he would jump at the chance of returning to Portman Road.

But a source close to Loach said: “Scott has heard the rumours linking him with a move to Ipswich and he is flattered by them. There are some great keepers being mentioned and whoever they sign will be a great choice.

“But Scott has had no contact with the club. After last season (when he was dropped), his main objective is to prove people at Watford wrong.”

Heaton’s name has also been touted among supporters, especially after Town missed out on top target Tomasz Kuszczak to divisional rivals Brighton.

But the 26-year-old revealed: “I have spoken to a few interested clubs and I hope to have my future sorted out in the next couple of weeks. But Ipswich is not one of the clubs I have spoken to.”

With Arran Lee-Barrett the only keeper currently on the books, the number one spot has become a top priority for Ipswich, with Brad Guzan also rumoured to be interesting Jewell.

Guzan’s agent declined to comment on the US keeper’s future when contacted by the Star, but it has been reported that he is also interesting Hull City boss Steve Bruce.

A lower-league custodian, in line with Jewell’s overall transfer policy, is another possibility and rumours surrounding Gillingham 19-year-old Paolo Gazzaniga refuse to go away.