SIMON Clegg is acutely aware of the need for more signings at Ipswich Town this summer – but the chief executive insists the club won’t be forced into paying over the odds.

Blues fans had anticipated a rush of transfer activity this week after Paul Jewell – flush with the cash raised by Connor Wickham’s big money move to Sunderland – had hinted at the fact that two more new arrivals were hopefully on their way.

So far it has been a frustratingly quiet week at Portman Road though, with free agent Lee Bowyer’s contract talks having been delayed until this weekend.

“I’m very happy with the business we’ve done so far, but I also recognise that more is required,” said Clegg, who maintained his policy of not commenting on specific transfer speculation.

“People are focusing on the headline figure of �12m regarding Connor but we are actually only guaranteed �8.1m and even then it’s not like that lump sum of money has just appeared in the bank. We’ve received a large sum, of course, but some of it will be received over instalments.

“Most transfer negotiations start at an inflated price, but the bottom line is we will only pay what we feel is the true worth of a player. Paul understands that and takes a very responsible approach to the finances of the club.”

With four signings having already been made this summer and just over four weeks left to go until the new Championship season kicks off there is no need to panic just yet.

But with a centre-back, right-back, central-midfielder, winger and striker all still arguably required if Town are going to be competing at the top end of the table, Blues fans – many of whom remain undecided as to whether to renew season tickets – will be hoping things start happening soon.