Dutch goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen joins Ipswich Town in Premier League transfer

After a standout season in Belgium’s top flight, Dutch goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen is set to make a high-profile move to England’s Premier League. The 26-year-old shot-stopper has agreed terms with newly promoted Ipswich Town, with a transfer fee of at least €10 million confirmed by his current club, Union Saint-Gilloise.

The deal includes potential performance-based bonuses that could push the total to €13 million. Before finalizing the move, Scherpen must complete a medical examination and finalize a four-year contract with the Tractor Boys, as Ipswich are officially known. His arrival at Portman Road adds competition to the goalkeeper position, where Christian Walton has been the established first choice.

From Brighton to Belgium and back to England

The talented Netherlands international began his professional journey at Ajax before joining Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021 for €5 million. However, first-team opportunities remained scarce, leading to loan spells at KV Oostende, Vitesse Arnhem, and Sturm Graz.

Last summer, he made the switch to Union Saint-Gilloise for around €2 million, signing a contract running through mid-2028. His impact was immediate: he helped the Belgian side secure the Croky Cup and was awarded the Golden Glove for most clean sheets in the league, recording 21 shutouts in 43 appearances.

Rising interest and a new chapter in England

Interest from multiple European clubs had been growing, with Fabrizio Romano previously noting that Italian, German, and English teams were monitoring Scherpen’s progress. Ipswich, who secured promotion to the Premier League last season, emerged as the frontrunner and completed the deal this week.

In addition to Scherpen, Ipswich Town has also signed Kayne van Oevelen from FC Volendam, boosting competition in midfield. Both signings add depth to a squad aiming to establish itself in England’s top division.