Chelsea star Reece James responds as former teammate completes Ipswich move
Chelsea captain Reece James has responded to the news that one of his former teammates has joined Ipswich Town.
England defender James helped Chelsea beat PSG in a stunning 3-0 triumph over the Champions League winners in the Club World Cup final on Sunday, 13 July.
The West Londoners raced to three goal advantage by half-time thanks to Cole Palmer’s brace and Joao Pedro’s chipped finish.
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town are preparing to win promotion from the Championship after being relegated from the Premier League last term.
Chelsea star James responds as Cedric Kipre joins Ipswich
James hopes to win more silverware with Enzo Maresca’s men next term, having lifted both the Conference League and Club World Cup titles in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, Ipswich have stepped up their preparations for next season’s Championship campaign by signing former West Brom defender Cedric Kipre on loan from French side Reims.
Kieran McKenna’s side revealed via Instagram on 13 July: “CK is in. The club is delighted to announce the loan signing of defender Cedric Kipre from Reims.”
James formerly played alongside Kipre when he was on loan with then Championship side Wigan Athletic in 2018/19 and commented: “Yessir.”
Kipre can help Ipswich win promotion
Football Insider verdict
After completing the remarkable feat of back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League, Ipswich struggled to acclimatise to the demands of the top flight last season.
| Cedric Kipre stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
However, the Tractor Boys’ transfer activity this summer suggests they are capable of winning immediate promotion from the Championship.
But amid the Suffolk club’s efforts to compile a squad that can return to the Premier League at the first time of asking, Everton want to sign Ipswich star Omari Hutchinson.
McKenna’s side have acquired midfielder Azor Matusiwa from Rennes, after the 27-year-old made 29 appearances in the French top flight last season.
Meanwhile, Kipre’s experience at Championship level with Wigan, West Brom, and Cardiff City suggests that he can help the Portman Road club win promotion from the second tier.
He helped the Baggies reach the playoffs in 2024, but will strive to help Ipswich claim an automatic promotion spot.
The one-cap Ivory Coast international also made 28 appearances in French Ligue 1 last season, further showcasing his defensive ability.