IPSWICH Town are expected to announce Wimbledon's Kelvin Davis as their new goalkeeper soon.The 27-year-old former England Under 21 international is likely to be joining for a modest fee from a First Division crisis-club who are in administration.

By Dave Allard

IPSWICH Town are expected to announce Wimbledon's Kelvin Davis as their new goalkeeper soon.

The 27-year-old former England Under 21 international is likely to be joining for a modest fee from a First Division crisis-club who are in administration.

Paul Gerrard, the Everton keeper who had a month with Town on loan last season, was very much in contention for a permanent move to Suffolk.

But the injury to Goodison number one Richard Wright has ruled that out and Town boss Joe Royle has moved for the Bedford -born Davis instead.

A new keeper is needed by Town as Royle has free transfer listed Andy Marshall and Italian Matteo Sereni has returned to play for Lazio.

Davis took over as the number one at Wimbledon following the departure of Neil Sullivan to Tottenham.

He has a good all round game with a particularly strong kick.

During his time at Luton he was coached by Malcolm Webster, now the full-time keeper coach at Portman Road.

Before establishing himself at Luton, Davis had loan spells at Torquay and Hartlepool.

He was signed by Wimbledon for £600,000 in July, 1999.

It is likely that Davis will make his debut in Saturday's friendly game at Colchester.

Royle, who arrrived back with his squad from the Scandinavian tour last night, said of the game at Layer Road, "It will be a different prospect against Colchester. They are our nearest rivals and will be determined to do well."

Meanwhile, the West Bromwich Albion offer for Thomas Gaardsoe, revealed exclusively in yesterday's Evening Star, remains well short of Town's valuation.

It is believed to be around the £600,000 mark. It could be that Baggies manager Gary Megson will increase the offer for the Danish central defender.