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Armando Broja's switch to Town collapses

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Armando Broja's proposed move to Ipswich Town collapsed in the final stages, despite earlier reports of an agreement between Town and Chelsea.

The big picture: The proposed deal hinged on a £30 million obligation to buy, contingent on Ipswich's Premier League survival. However, the transfer reportedly collapsed due to issues uncovered during Broja's medical with Town.

The £30m clause represented a significant financial risk to Town, especially for a player who hasn't consistently delivered at the top level yet and recently spent nine months of the sidelines with an ACL injury.

Leading the line: Broja was poised to bolster Town's attack alongside George Hirst and Liam Delap. His arrival would likely have triggered moves for Ali Al-Hamadi (loan) and Freddie Ladapo.

Why it matters: Town's striking options are limited. While Delap has shown promise against Liverpool and his former club Manchester City, Hirst is sidelined with injury, and Al-Hamadi has had to lead the line off the bench in the club's two Premier League games so far this season.

What's next: Town are likely to turn their attention to other forward options ahead of Friday's transfer deadline.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Independent gift shop Bromley & Co to close after nine years in Ipswich

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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A long-standing independent gift shop in Ipswich town centre is set to close its doors in the next few weeks, with the owners citing declining footfall as the reason for closure.

Why it matters: The closure of Bromley & Co, which has been a fixture in The Walk for nearly a decade, represents another loss to Ipswich's independent retail sector.

Bromley & Co in The Walk in Ipswich
Bromley & Co in The Walk in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The shop, which opened in 2016 and is co-owned by Maxine Matthews and Sharon Baker, specialises in gift cards, jewellery, home interiors and clothes.

The background: The business has faced various challenges throughout its nine-year history, including the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. However, the owners cite a decline in town centre footfall as the straw that broke the camel's back.

What's next: The shop will remain open for a few more weeks, and customers can take advantage of the closing-down sale.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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