Derek McInnes clapping in rain inside stadium

Derek McInnes in rainImago

Sources: Derek McInnes in contention to be Ipswich Town manager amid strong Rangers interest

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Published on:

13 Jun 2026, 7:16 pm

Hearts boss Derek McInnes is in contention to become Ipswich Town's next manager, sources have told Football Insider.

The Tractor Boys have a strong interest in the 54-year-old and are keen to interview him as they search for Kieran McKenna’s replacement.

However, Ipswich are aware that they may have to battle Rangers for his signature in the next week.

The Hearts boss is a leading candidate to replace Ibrox incumbent Danny Rohl, who is expected to be appointed Red Bull Salzburg’s next manager.

McInnes led Hearts to a 2^nd place finish in the Scottish Premiership this season, with the club just 90 minutes away from lifting their first top-flight title since 1960.

Now, he could make his return to English football for the first time since 2013, having previously managed Bristol City.

What is Derek McInnes’ record at Hearts?

Since McInnes joined the Jambos in 2025, he has helped transform the club.

An unbeaten start to the Scottish Premiership season saw the club sit top of the table come November, with the manager picking up three consecutive SPFL Manager of the Month awards.

While a 3-1 defeat to Celtic on the final day ended their title ambitions, the Jambos’ second-place finish means that they will play Champions League football for the first time since 2006, which has no doubt helped attract the interest of Ipswich.

Come the end of the 2025-26 campaign, McInnes boasts a 62.22 win per cent at Hearts after he has won 28 of his 45 games in charge.

What Derek McInnes has said about managing Rangers as Danny Rohl exit news emerges

What will happen with Kieran McKenna after Ipswich departure?

McKenna’s departure from Ipswich no doubt came as a shock this week, as he ended his five-year run at Portman Road.

The 40-year-old has ruled out a move elsewhere at present despite being heavily linked to the current Fulham vacancy.

However, if he does decide to make a quick move back into the dugout, former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider that Ipswich could earn up to £10million in compensation if Premier League clubs come calling.

This clause will last a year before it expires, which could delay any quick returns for McKenna in the near future.

However, it remains to be seen who will replace the 40-year-old as Ipswich looks to successfully avoid Premier League relegation this season.

Heart of Midlothian Football Club